PMO helps clean up Combat Center with Drug Take Back

Twentynine Palms -- The Provost Marshal’s Office held a Prescription Drug Take Back at Heritage Park, Oct. 22, 2016.

PMO and Marine Corps Community Services held the event in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administration to provide Combat Center residents an opportunity to anonymously turn in any expired or unneeded prescription drugs for proper disposal.

“There are a lot of people who flush or throw away their old [medication],” said Staff Sgt. Joshua Gerland, physical security chief, PMO. “That is dangerous because they don’t break down properly and may contaminate the water supply.”

PMO hosts the event twice a year. According to Gerland, prescription medications are one of the most abused forms of drugs. These types of events help prevent misuse or theft of these drugs.

“There are a lot of larceny cases that revolve around prescription drugs,” said Agent Natalie Calderon, chief investigator, Criminal Investigation Division. “This helps prevent these thefts and keep the medication with the person its intended for.

PMO was able to fill five boxes with prescription medications for the DEA to properly dispose of. Another opportunity to turn in expired prescriptions is scheduled next year.