Local Police Department Urges Residents To Participate In Drug Take Back Day

GARDEN CITY, NY — With Drug Take Back Day approaching next week, local police departments are sharing details on how to participate in the program.

The Garden City Police Department shared that they are proud to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 25.

On that date, a collection center will be located at the GCPD Headquarters, 349 Stewart Avenue. Community members can safely dispose of their unwanted or expired prescription drugs at the center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Officials said by participating in National Drug Take Back Day, residents can prevent prescription drugs from "falling into the wrong hands and potentially save lives."

Acting Commissioner Gerard Kneisel said they are accepting all unused, expired, and unwanted medications that are often associated with drug abuse, accidental poisonings, and overdoses.

"It allows for the safe disposal of drugs instead of flushing,
burying, or throwing them out in the garbage, which poses significant environmental and health risks," he said.

For those who cannot drop off the drugs at a collection site on the official April 25th date, Kneisel said the GCPD accepts unwanted medications every day.

This day is part of a nationwide effort to combat the opioid epidemic, as well as promote safe disposal of prescription drugs.

The DEA reported that in the October 2025 Drug Take Back Day, 571,054 lbs. or 286 tons were collected in weight. 4,263 law enforcement agencies participated, and there were 4,317 total collection sites.

To search for a collection site, folks can use the DEA locator here.