MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WTVF) — Vape pens and cartridges will now be accepted by the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office as part of their Drug Take Back program.
The program is meant for unwanted prescription or over the counter drugs to be collected and disposed of by the sheriff's office. At the request of the DEA, Rutherford County is now doing the same for vape products.
"With all of the illegal vapes on the market and the danger involved with vaping, the DEA thought it would be a good idea," sai Sgt. Robert Dowell.
There were two collections points for national Drug Take Back Day in Rutherford County on Saturday. One was at the sheriff's office, the other at St. Thomas Health.
"I think we're up to 34 deaths nationwide and 1,000 of the vape associated illnesses, respiratory illness," said Sarah Murfree, director of Prevention Coalition for Success. "We're just raising awareness that those products are now being shown to be dangerous. So, if people don't want to use them anymore then we'll be happy to help properly dispose of them."
Although the event ends this weekend, the sheriff's office accepts drugs and vape products year round.
The drop off box is located inside the sheriff's office lobby.
