The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Caribbean Division, in collaboration with the U.S. Virgin Islands HIDTA Prevention Initiative, has launched a Prescription Drug Drop Box Program in the territory. The initiative, supported by the V.I. Police Department, the Department of Health, the Overdose Response Strategy, the Centers for Disease Control, and the U.S. Postal Service, aims to provide residents with a secure way to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications.
The program establishes five drop box locations across the U.S. Virgin Islands—two in St. Croix, two in St. Thomas, and one in St. John—where community members can safely discard prescription drugs. The effort seeks to reduce drug diversion, addiction, and overdose risks while also addressing environmental concerns by preventing pharmaceuticals from contaminating local water systems.
DEA Caribbean Division Special Agent in Charge Michael A. Miranda emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “We all know the devastating impact that drug misuse can have on families and communities. By removing unused medications from our homes and disposing of them safely, we are taking a critical step in preventing substance misuse and overdose. This program is about protecting our loved ones and ensuring a healthier, safer future for the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
According to national studies, nearly 70% of prescription drug diversion occurs among family and friends, often starting with unused medications left in household medicine cabinets. Many addiction and overdose cases stem from easy access to these prescriptions. By offering secure disposal options, the program aims to limit the availability of these medications and prevent potential tragedies.
Beyond public health benefits, the initiative also addresses environmental concerns. Improper disposal of pharmaceuticals—such as flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—can contaminate water sources. By providing designated drop-off locations, the program supports efforts to keep the local environment safe and clean.
Residents are encouraged to take an active role in the program by:
- Regularly reviewing their medications to identify expired or unused prescriptions.
- Safely disposing of medications at the designated drop box locations.
- Spreading awareness within their communities about the importance of proper medication disposal.
The five secure prescription drug drop boxes have been placed at the following U.S. Postal Service locations:
- Gallows Bay Post Office, St. Croix
- Kingshill Post Office, St. Croix
- Frenchtown Post Office, St. Thomas
- Sugar Estate Post Office, St. Thomas
- Cruz Bay Post Office, St. John
The DEA Caribbean Division said it remains committed to fostering strong community partnerships to combat the opioid crisis and prescription drug misuse.
For more information, residents can visit the DEA’s official website at www.dea.gov or follow updates from the DEA Caribbean Division on Instagram (@DEACARIBBEAN) and X (@DEACARIBBEANDiv).
British Caribbean News