Trenton, Michigan (January 23, 2013)—A steady stream of downriver residents and individuals from other metro Detroit communities brought in a record quantity of expired medications as well as prescription narcotics for safe disposal to West Grange Pharmacy in Trenton during the retailer’s daylong Yellow Jug event last Saturday, January 19.

Over 200 pounds of medications were collected, filling eight Yellow Jugs provided by the Great Lakes Clean Water Organization. Two of the large jugs were completely filled with unused narcotic medications that had an estimated retail value of $100,000 and a street value almost five times that amount. This was the first time that the Trenton Police Department joined West Grange Pharmacy’s safe medication disposal efforts, which is available year round at the store. Police officers oversaw the collection of the narcotic prescriptions and the Detroit DEA handled the disposal.

All medications collected were disposed of in a safe, environmentally responsible manner. “Safe disposal of unused medications has a positive and powerful impact on Michigan’s lakes and water systems,” said Rich Grossman, owner of West Grange Pharmacy. “And thanks to all of the assistance from the Trenton Police and Fire Departments, we potentially keep old narcotic prescription medications from falling into the wrong hands.”

"The Trenton Police and Fire Departments are grateful for the contribution of Mr. Grossman and the staff at West Grange Pharmacy to remove dangerous drugs from our community,” said James Nardone, Trenton Chief of Police. “The event exceeded our expectations. People came to the West Grange Pharmacy from as far away as Clarkston and Mt. Clemens to participate in this successful initiative."

ABOUT WEST GRANGE PHARMACY: Recently celebrating their 53rd year in the community, West Grange Pharmacy has served customers in the Trenton area since 1960. They are proud to be known as one of the last great independent pharmacies in town and have a strong commitment to personal service. West Grange Pharmacy has managed to maintain the intimacy of a neighborhood pharmacy and also features an extensive gift and clothing department. The retailer has been named 2013 Trenton Business of the Year by the Trenton Business Association.

Photo: Trenton Patrol Officer Donald Ward and West Grange Pharmacy employee Janet Kline holding a bag of prescription bottles. Credit: Michael Isabella, CKC Agency