News : Prescription medicine disposal site now available in Vinton

Abuse and misuse of prescription drugs is one of the fastest-rising problems related to substance abuse, especially among teenagers, throughout the U.S.

To help fight this problem locally, the Benton County Above the Influence Coalition and the Benton County Sheriff's Office have worked together to provide a 24-hour drop box for the disposal of expired or no-longer needed prescription drugs.

The box, with security features that prevent anyone from removing items from it, is located between the two entry doors of the sheriff's office. The outside door is open 24/7; the inside door is locked after business hours. There is also a security camera to monitor the area.

An prescription medicine, with the exception of syringes, can be placed there.

Sheriff Randy Forsyth and deputy Mark Phippen joined Above the Coalition Director David Condry and Above the Coalition Board President Greg Walston at the site to formally announce the project this week.

Phippen will regularly remove medication from the box; it will remain in secure storage until removal be the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency.