PSA 10/29/2026 11:00 a.m.: LVPD Collects 128.2 Pounds of Medication during DEA Drug Take Back Event
The Las Vegas Police Department (LVPD) is thanking the community for participating in the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back event held this past Saturday, October 24. A total of 128.2 pounds of unwanted, unused, and expired medications were collected for safe disposal, helping protect public health and promote household safety. The event provided residents with a secure, convenient, and no-cost opportunity to dispose of eligible medications through a no-questions-asked drop-off process.
Proper medication disposal helps prevent prescription drug misuse, abuse, and diversion. Medications left unsecured in homes can be accessed by children, teenagers, or others who may be at risk, while accidental ingestion can pose serious health concerns for children and pets. Responsible disposal also helps protect the environment by reducing the risk of pharmaceutical contaminants entering water systems and soil.
The Las Vegas Police Department hosts Drug Take Back events twice a year, in April and October, giving residents regular opportunities to safely dispose of medications they no longer need. The amount of medication collected continues to increase year after year, reflecting growing community participation and awareness of the importance of safe medication disposal.
Currently, the closest known year-round medication disposal options are located at pharmacies in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The LVPD is working to identify a viable local solution to provide residents with a permanent, year-round medication disposal location in Las Vegas. Establishing a local option would make responsible disposal more accessible for residents who may face transportation challenges or have difficulty traveling outside the community, allowing them to safely dispose of medications when needed rather than keeping unused prescriptions in their homes until the next collection event.
The department thanks everyone who participated and encourages residents to continue practicing safe medication storage and disposal. Through ongoing community involvement and partnerships, residents and local agencies can work together to protect families, preserve natural resources, and build a healthier Las Vegas community.
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