Leading the Way for a Safer PinellasOver 600 pounds of pills and other medications were collected in Pinellas County during "Operation Medicine Cabinet." The success of the operation is attributed to the assistance provided by the media in getting the word out to the public, and to the citizens for their response and participation. "Operation Medicine Cabinet" was held from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2009 at four Pinellas County locations. Two were located in the Sheriff's Office jurisdiction and two in the St. Petersburg Police Department's jurisdiction. A total of 361 pounds were collected at the Sheriff's Office locations and 261 pounds were collected at the St. Pete Police Department locations. According to detectives, prescription medications of all types were received during the four-hour time period. The success of the operation is attributed to the assistance provided by all local media outlets in getting the information out to the public through their news programs, morning shows, and publications; and to the citizens for their response and participation. Detectives say the operation was a resounding success not only because of the volume of medications received, but because of the level of awareness and attention drawn to the problem of prescription drug abuse. The Sheriff's Office plans to hold another prescription take-back opportunity later this year. Hillsborough, Pasco and Hernando Counties also participated in "Operation Medicine Cabinet."
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