Over 1,400 Pounds of Prescription Drugs Collected During METRICH Take Back Initiative

In a coordinated effort to reduce the misuse of prescription medications and promote safe disposal, the METRICH Enforcement Unit and local law enforcement agencies across North Central Ohio participated in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

 

The initiative, led by the METRICH Enforcement Unit, brought together agencies from across Richland County and beyond, including the Mansfield Division of Police, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Shelby Police Department, Lexington Police Department, Plymouth Police Department, Community Action for Capable Youth (CACY), Richland County Solid Waste Authority, Richland Public Health, and the Richland County Mental Health & Recovery Services Board.

 

Collectively, the METRICH region collected more than 1,402 pounds of unused or expired prescription medications. Officials emphasized that the success of the event was due to strong community participation and the dedicated collaboration between regional law enforcement partners.

 

Richland County Contributions:

Mansfield Police Department – 16 lbs.

Richland County Sheriff’s Office – 24.9 lbs.

Shelby Police Department – 18 lbs.

Lexington Police Department – 42 lbs.

Plymouth Police Department – 4 lbs.

Other County Totals Included:

Ashland County Sheriff’s Office – 180 lbs.

Marion County (Sheriff/Police) – 209 lbs.

Crawford County (combined agencies) – 329.2 lbs.

Morrow County (combined agencies) – 123.72 lbs.

Hancock County – 69.6 lbs.

Huron County (combined agencies) – 194.4 lbs.

Knox County (combined agencies) – 164.6 lbs.

Seneca County (combined agencies) – 105.18 lbs.

Wyandot County (combined agencies) – 101.5 lbs.

 

The METRICH Enforcement Unit, a ten-county decentralized drug task force, plays a vital role in promoting public safety through proactive enforcement. Its mission is to reduce the availability of illegal drugs and weapons and improve the quality of life for residents in its coverage area.

 

Officials encourage residents to remain vigilant in reporting suspicious activity. Anonymous tips can be submitted to the METRICH crime hotlines at 419-522-7463 or via the website at www.METRICH.com.

 

This annual event not only helps remove potentially dangerous medications from homes but also prevents environmental harm from improper disposal.