HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDA REPORT 2019 0717 REG CCSA ITEM 10DCITY OF MOORPARK,
CALIFORNIA
City Council Meeting
of July 17, 2019
ACTION A pproved Staff
Recommendation. BY
B.Garza
D. Consider Ventura County Grand Jury Annual Detention Facilities and Law
Enforcement Report and City of Moorpark Response to Final Report of the
Ventura County Grand Jury 2018-2019 on Drug and Sharps Disposal. Staff
Recommendation: Approve the draft response to the Grand Jury report findings
and recommendations for the Drug and Sharps Disposal Report, and authorize
the Mayor to sign and submit the response to the Presiding Judge of the Superior
Court. (Staff: Captain Victor Fazio)
Item: 10.D.
MOORPARK CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA REPORT
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Victor Fazio, Police Chief/Captain, Ventura County Sheriff
DATE: 07/17/2019 Regular Meeting
SUBJECT: Consider Ventura County Grand Jury Annual Detention Facilities and
Law Enforcement Report and City of Moorpark Response to Final
Report of the Ventura County Grand Jury 2018-2019 on Drug and
Sharps Disposal
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
On May 9, 2019, the Ventura County Grand Jury provided the City Council and City
Manager with their “Annual Detention Facilities and Law Enforcement Report” dated
April 16, 2019 (Attachment 1). There were no findings or recommendations to respond
to in that Grand Jury Report.
On June 6, 2019, the Ventura County Grand Jury provided the City Council and City
Manager with an additional final report dated May 2, 2019, of its investigation entitled,
“Drug and Sharps Disposal Report” (Attachment 2). The Grand Jury concluded that
among the County law enforcement facilities that have drug disposal bins, there is a
lack of information and consistency in public guidance regarding the disposal of all
medications, particularly for pet owners. A draft response to the Grand Jury Drug and
Sharps Disposal Report is attached (Attachment 3).
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with providing a response to the Grand Jury or
implementing any of the recommendations provided in the Drug and Sharps Disposal
Report.
STAFF RECOMMENATION
Approve the draft response to the Grand Jury report findings and recommendations for
the Drug and Sharps Disposal Report, and authorize the Mayor to sign and submit the
response to the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court.
Attachments:
1. Grand Jury Annual Detention Facilities and Law Enforcement Report
2. Grand Jury Drug and Sharps Disposal Report
3. Response to Grand Jury Report Form for Drug and Sharps Disposal Report
Item: 10.D.
124
ca.my of ventura
May 7, 2019
Confidential
Mayor Janice Parvin
City of Moorpart
799 Moorpark A venue
Moorpark, CA 93021
Dear Mayor Parvin,
Grand Jury
800 South V icto ria A ve nu e
V entura . CA 93009
(805) 477-1600
Fax : (805) 658-4523
gra ndjury.co untyofventu ra .o rg
RECEIVED
MAY 0 9 2019
CITY CLERK'S DIVISION
CITY OF MOORPARK
The Ventura County Grand Jury has completed the attached report titled Annual Detention Facilities
and Law Enforcement Report. This copy of the report is being provided to you two days in advance of
its public release , as required by California Penal Code §933.05 (f), which states:
A grand jury shall provide to the affected agency a copy of the portion of the grand jury report
relating to that person or entity two working days prior to its public release and after the
approval of the presiding judge. No officer, agency, department, or governing body of a public
agency shall disclose any contents of the report prior to the public release of the final report.
Please check the last page of text of the report for the timing of your response, if any, as required by the
Penal Code. Section 933.05 of the Penal Code is attached for your reference. Also attached is a form for
your responses to Grand Jury findings/conclusions and recommendations.
Please keep in mind that this report must be kept confidential until its public release by the Grand Jury .
Respectfully , i;~
Ka~nd, Foreperson
2018-2019 Ventura County Grand Jury
./
ATTACHMENT 1
125
Ventura County Grand Jury
2018 -2019
Final Report
Annual Detention Facilities
and Law Enforcement Report
. I'
April 16, 2019
126
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127
Ventura Countv 2018 -2019 Grand .Jurv
Summary
Annual Detention Facilities
and Law Enforcement Report
Final Report
Pursuant to Penal Code Section 919(b), the 2018-2019 Ventura County Grand Jury
(Grand Jury) inquired into the condition and management of all detention facilities
(holding cells, jails, juvenile facilities) in Ventura County (County). The Grand Jury
inspected the Pre-Trial Detention Facility (Main Jail); Todd Road Jail; the East Valley
Jail; all 10 city holding facilities; and two juvenile facilities, one operated by the
State of California (State) and one by the County.
The Grand Jury concluded that the holding cells, jails and juvenile facilities are
satisfactory, according to the requirements of the State Board of State and
Community Corrections (BSCC). Personnel at each location were welcoming and
knowledgeable, explaining all policies and procedures, as well as providing access
to all areas of the facilities.
Background
California Penal Code 919(b) mandates that the Grand Jury conduct an annual
inspection of County detention facilities. The Grand Jury documented the overall
results for each facility in the attached chart, titled "Detention Facilities Inspection
Summary" (Att-01).
Methodology
The Grand Jury carried out its annual inspection of County detention facilities and
performed the following activities:
• Made announced visits to the following jails and juvenile facilities: Todd Road,
Main Jail, Juvenile Justice Complex and the Ventura County Youth
Correctional Facility
• Made unannounced visits to the following holding facilities: Camarillo,
Fillmore, Moorpark, Ojai, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, Ventura,
Thousand Oaks/East Valley and Simi Valley
• Inspected policies and procedures manuals
• Inspected State agency reports, complaint logs, fire inspection reports,
health inspection reports, juvenile logs, demographic reports and other
documentation
• Recorded observations during each visit
. /'
Annual Detention and Law Enforcement Report 1
128
Ventura County 2018 -2019 Grand Jury Final Report
The attached table summarizes the results of the physical and procedural
inspections of each detention facility. The following rating system was used:
E = Excellent S = Satisfactory
N = Needs improvement Shaded = Not Observed (Att-01)
Review of Jails
Pre-Trial Detention Facility (Main Jail): The Main Jail was opened in 1980. On
the date of the Grand Jury visit, October 2, 2018, it housed 779 inmates. The facility
is certified by the BSCC for a maximum rated housing capacity of 800. Inmates
identified as suicidal or a danger to others are segregated from the general
population.
The medical personnel at the Main Jail include primary care physicians,
psychiatrists, nurses and mental health workers. Nurses are on duty at all times.
The medical professionals perform patient care for diseases, injuries and mental-
health problems. Inmates are transported to Ventura County Medical Center for
medical issues beyond the capabilities of the Main Jail medical facility.
At the time of the Grand Jury visit, the jurors inquired into two recent deaths of
inmates. One death resulted from a brain aneurysm and the other from an assault
by one inmate upon another.
The Main Jail also operates an electronic monitoring program, which allows up to
34 participants to reside off-site. It provides the ability for defendants and inmates
to maintain or seek employment, maintain family ties, and participate in
appropriate counseling and programming as necessary while awaiting trial and after
sentencing.
Todd Road Jail Facility: Todd Road Jail was built in 1995. On the date of the
Grand Jury visit, August 21, 2018, there were 800 inmates (240 women and 560
men), with a BSCC maximum rated housing capacity of 796. The facility provides
educational, career and mental-health programs. The staff reported that these
programs contribute to a lower recidivism rate of 65% versus 70% nationally.
This facil(ty is currently undergoing an expansion to add a 64-bed medical and
psychiatric unit.
East Valley Jail: The East Valley Jail, located in Thousand Oaks, housed 10 inmates
on the date of the Grand Jury visit on October 15, 2018. It has a maximum rated
housing capacity of 34.
Inmates housed at the East Valley Jail are carefully screened by the Classification
Unit at the Main Jail prior to transfer to this facility. They are trustees who perform
unsupervised duties for the Sheriff's Department. ,
Ventura Youth Correctional Facility (VYCF): Located in Ventura County, this
co-ed facility is managed by the State and houses 13-to 23-year-olds from any
county within the State.
On the day of the Grand Jury's visit, February 12, 2019, there were 187 residents.
This population count reflects the continued decline in statewide youth detention.
2 Annual Detention and Law Enforcement Report
129
Ventura Countv 2018 -2019 Grand Jury Final Report
The Mary B. Perry High School, located within the facility, provides programs to
help the youth achieve either a high school diploma or GED. College courses for
credit are also provided. Additional programs are offered in vocational training,
work experience, counseling and, if needed, psychiatric and psychological help.
Some of the vocational training has been utilized in making renovations within the
facility. Programs such as sports and social activities are included to prepare the
VYCF youth to return to society. ·
Juvenile Justice Facility: This facility for youth pre-trial detention and post-
seritencing confinement is located in Oxnard and is managed by the Ventura County
Probation Agency. The capacity is 420 youth; on the day of the Grand Jury visit on
January 24, 2019, there was a total of 67 youth residents in detention and
confinement. The campus also includes Providence High School and the juvenile
courthouse. A Boys and Girls Club has been on-site since 2006.
Review of Holding Cells
Ventura County Sheriff's Office: Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Ojai and
Thousand Oaks
City Police Departments: Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, Simi Valley and
Ventura
Holding cells are for short-term detention prior to release or transfer to a jail facility.
Unannounced walk-through inspections were conducted of holding cells.
The Grand Jury found that each facility follows mandated procedures for juveniles,
maintaining separation from adult detainees. Juveniles are held in interview rooms
rather than cells and are under constant observation. Food and water are provided
as appropriate. Separate detailed logs are maintained on all juvenile detentions.
The general practice is to return juveniles to parents or guardians within BSCC
guidelines of four hours.
Some holding-cell locations had toilet facilities and drinking fountains within the
cells; at other locations, toilet facilities were outside the cells. At a minimum,
holding cells have a bench. Except for Santa Paula, cells did not have mattresses.
At other locations a mattress could be provided if needed. During the initial
inspection of one holding facility, the Grand Jury identified plumbing deficiencies,
which were subsequently corrected.
The Grand Jury found that routine operational policies and procedures are
documented, current and available to all staff in a manual and via Lexipol, a police-
management software program.
The Grand Jury inspected all fire, safety and health certifications, including the
BSCC annual inspection report. No significant discrepancies were noted in the
documentation.
Annual Detention and Law Enforcement Report 3
130
Ventura Countv 2018 -2019 Grand .Jury Final Report
Commendations
The Grand Jury commends the Sheriff's Office and the Board of Supervisors for their
proactive stance in advancing the medical and mental-health facility addition to the
Todd Road Jail.
The Grand Jury further commends the Ventura Youth Correctional Facility for
receiving accreditation of the Mary B. Perry High School.
The Grand Jury also commends both the Juvenile Justice Facility and the Ventura
County Youth Facility for improving emergency evacuation plans by developing
reciprocal agreements with juvenile facilities in neighboring counties.
Delivered To:
Ventura County Board of Supervisors
Ventura County Sheriff's Office
City Council, City of Camarillo
City Council, City of Fillmore
City Council, City of Moorpark
City Council, City of Ojai
City Council, City of Oxnard
City Council, City of Port Hueneme
City Council, City of Santa Paula
City Council, City of Simi Valley
City Council, City of Thousand Oaks
City Council, City of Ventura
Ventura County Probation Agency
Ventura Youth Correctional Facility
4 Annual Detention and Law Enforcement Report
. .I'
131
Ventura County 2018 -2019 Grand Jury Final Reoort
Attachment
Att-01. Detention Facilities Inspection Summary
Glossary
DEFINITION TERM
BSCC Board of State and Community Corrections
County
Detention Facilities
Grand Jury
State
vcso
VYCF
Ventura County
Holding cells, jails and juvenile facilities
2018-2019 Ventura County Grand Jury
State of California
Ventura County Sheriff's Office
Ventura Youth Correctional Facility
·Annual Detention and Law Enforcement Report
.I'
5
132
Ventura County 2018 -2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Attachment 01
Detention Facilities Inspection Summary
6 Annual Detention and Law Enforcement Report
133
Ventura County 2018 -2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Detention Facilities Inspection Summary Jail Facilities
Juvenile
Adult Jails Facilities
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Polic~ And Procedure Manuals
Medical i ncidents s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Routine operations procedures s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Inmate classification procedure s s s s s
Inmate request procedure s s s s s
Grievance procedu r e s s s s s
Ph~sical Foci/it~ Observations
Certificat ions current s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Average population/crowding s s s s s
Average detainee sentence/stay s s s s s
Cell cleanliness/sanitation ,s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Clothing/personal hygiene s s s s s
Bedding/l i nens s s s s s
Toilet/accessibility s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Shower/accessibility s s s s s
Bodily fluids cleaners/drainage s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Safety/maintenance s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Light i ng/environment s s s s s
Phone accessibili t y s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Kitchen cleanliness/adequacy s s s s s
Food/prepara t ion s s s s s
Food/snacks/water s s s s s s s s s
First aid/AED , log s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Med i cal infrastr ucture s s s s s
Exercise/recreation facilities s s s s s
Accommodat ion for restraints s s s s s s s s s
English/Spanish signage s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Staff Spanish abili t y s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Staffing adequacy s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
Inmate prog r ams s s s s s
Accommodation tor Juveniles
Appropriate use of restraints s s s s s s s s s
Segregation from adults s s s s s s s s s
Shouting distance to staff s s s s s s s s s
Phone call to parents s s s s s s s s s
Pre-trans f er interview s s s s s s s s s
Log s s s s s s s s s
Average/longest t i me held s s s s s s s s s
Annual Detention and Law Enforcement Report 7
134
Ventura County 2018 -2019 Grand Jury Final Report
This, page intentionally blank
. .I'
8 Annual Detention and Law Enforcement Report
135
California Penal Code Sections
Penal Code 933
No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public
agency subject to its reviewing authority, the governing body of the public agency shall
comment to the presiding judge of the superior court on the findings and
recommendations pertaining to matters under the control of the governing body, and
every elected county officer or agency head for which the grand jury has responsibility
pursuant to Section 914.1 shall comment.within 60 days to the presiding judge of the
superior court, with an information copy sent to the board of supervisors; on the findings
and recommendations pertaining to matters under the control of that county officer or<
agency head and any agency or agencies which that officer or agency head supervises or
. controls. ·
Penal Code 933.05
(a) For purposes of subdivision (b J of Section ~33, as to each grand jury finding, the. responding
. person ot entity shall indicate one of the following:
(1) The respondent agrees with the finding. .
(2) The respondent disagrees wholly or partially With the finding, 'in which case. the response
shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of
the reasons therefore. ·
(b) For purposes of subdivision (b) ofS~ction 933, as to each-grarid·juryrecommendation, the
responding person or entity shall report one of the following actions:
(1) The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented
action.
(2) The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future,
with a timeframe for implementation.
(3) The recommendation requires further analysis, :with an explanation and the scope and
parameters of an analysis or study, and a timeframe for the matter to be prepared for
discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or
reviewed, including the governing body of the public agency when applicable. This
timeframe shall not exceed six months from the date of publication of the grand jury
~~ .
( 4) The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not
-... reasonable, with an explanation therefore. ·
( c) However, if a finding or recommendation of the grand jury addresses budgetazy or personnel
matters of a county agency or department headed by an elected officer, both the agency or
department head and the board of supervisors shall respond if requested by the grand .
jucy, but the response of the board ·of supervisors shall address only those budgetary or .
· personnel matters over which itha? some:decision making al,lthority. The response of the
elected agency or department head.shall address all aspects of the findings or
recommendations affecting his or her agency or department.
( d) A grand jury may request a subject person or entity to come before the grand jury for the
purpose of readil).g and discussing the findings of the grand jury report'that relates to that
person or entity in order to verify the accu~acy ofth,e findings prior to their release.
( e) During an investigation, the grand jury shall meet with the subject of that investigation
regarding the investigation, un,less the court, either on its own determination or upon
request of the foreperson of the grand jury, determines that such a meeting would be
detrimenta~. _
(f) A grand jury shall provide to the affected agency a copy of the portion of the grand jury report
· relating to that person or entity two (2) wqrking days prior to its public release and after
the approval of the presiding judge. No officer, agency, department, or governing·body of a
public agency ~hall disclose any contents of the report prior to th~ public release 'of the
final report.
136
county of ventura
Gran d Jury
800 South V ictoria Avenue
Ventu ra , CA 93009
(805 ) 477-1600
Fa x: (805 ) 658-4523
·--grandjury.countyofventura .o rg
Response to Grand Jury ~eport Form
Report Title-:-
Report Date:
Response by: Title:
FINDINGS I CONCLUSIONS
• I (we) agree with the findings I conclusions numbered: _____________ _
• I (we) disagree wholly or partially with the Findings I Conclusions numbered :
(Attach a statement specifying any portions of the Findings I Conclusions that are
disputed; include an explanation of the reasons .)
RECOMM ENDATIONS
• Recommendations numbered have been implemented .
(Attach a summary describing the implemented actions and date completed .)
• Recommendations number have not yet been implemented, but will be
implemented in the future.
(Attach a time frame for the implementation .)
• Recommendations numbered ________ require further analysis.
• Recommendations numbered _________ will not be implemented because they are
not warranted or are not reasonable.
Date : --------Signed: ______________ _
./
Number of pages attached: ___ _
137
ATTACHMENT 2
Grand Jury
SOO South Victoria Avenue
Venlurri,CA 9309
aunty of venturaMS)677771500
=
Fax.{84b))4 - 523
1000
grandjury.caunt ivenlura.arg
RECEIVED
May 30, 2019 JUN 0 6 2019
CITY CLERKS DIVISION
CITY OF MOORPARK
Confidential
Mayor Janice Parvin
City of rvfoorpart
799 Moorpark Avenue
Moorpark, CA 93021
Dear Mayor Parvin,
The Ventura County Grand Jury has completed the attached report Drugs and Sharps Disposal. This
copy of the report is being provided to you two days in advance of ts nubile release, as required by
California Penal Code §933.05 ( , which states:
A grand jury shall provide to the affected agency a copy of the portion of the grand jury report
relating to that person or entity two working days prior to its public release and after the
approval of the presiding judge. No officer, agency. department. or governing body of a public
agency shall disclose any contents of the report prior to the public release of the final report_
Please check the last page of text of the report for the timing of your response, if any, as required by the
Penal Code. Section 93105 of the Penal Code is attached for your reference. Also attached is a form for
your responses to Grand Jury findings/conclusions and recommendations.
Please keep in mind that this report must be kept confidential until its public release by the Grand Jury.
Respectfully,
021011'
a/A4P1742--
K:th leen Diamond, Foreperson
2018-2019 Ventura County Grand Jury
138
Ventura County Grand Jury
2018 - 2019
, ,
iiPt
r 4
Final Report
Drug and Sharps Disposal
May 2, 2019
139
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140
Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Drug and Sharps Disposal
Summary
In 2009, Ventura County Behavioral Health (VCBH) partnered with the Ventura
County Sheriff's Office (VCSO) to increase collection and proper disposal of unused
and expired medications.
Based on an article in the Thousand Oaks Acorn reporting a 2016 incident where a
VCSO senior deputy was caught stealing drugs on site from a law enforcement drug
disposal bin, the 2018-2019 Ventura County Grand Jury (Grand Jury) opened an
investigation into drug disposal bins at law enforcement agencies in Ventura County
(County).
The Grand Jury found that County residents are generally poorly informed about
the existing drug disposal bin program(s) and drug disposal procedures in the
County. The Grand Jury also found discrepancy between the amount and type of
drugs VCBH reports being collected and the amount and type of drugs VCSO
actually collects.
On September 30, 2018, SB 212 Solid Waste: Pharmaceuticals and Sharps Waste
Stewardship was signed into law in California (State). The bill calls for
manufacturers or distributors (stewards) of pharmaceuticals to fund collection and
disposal programs for drugs and sharps and implement the bill's provisions by
January 1, 2021.
To increase the effectiveness of Ventura County's current drug disposal program(s),
the Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors (BOS) develop a uniform
coordinated program for drug and sharps disposal that is compliant with SB 212.
The Grand Jury also recommends that all law enforcement agencies update their
websites and other forms of communication to better inform the public about their
existing drug-disposal programs.
Background
The abuse of prescription medications is an increasing local and national public
epidemic that puts all lives at risk. Research over the past decade indicates both
prescription and over the counter (OTC) medications require secure disposal
measures to prevent accidental poisonings, as well as land and water pollution.
Additionally, there is growing research to demonstrate that unsecured drugs and a
lack of safe disposal options are partly to blame for the opioid crisis in our nation.
In Ventura County, VCBH, in collaboration with the VCSO, has established a
countywide program to facilitate the collection of unused drugs at most law
enforcement facilities.
Unsafe disposal of sharps can result in accidental infection or injury. At this time,
Ventura County doesnot have a program for the general public to safely dispose of
sharps.
Drug and Sharps Disposal 1
141
Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
A number of counties in California have adopted and implemented ordinances to
address safe drug and sharps disposal. These ordinances are based on an Extended
Producer Responsibility (EPR) model. This model places responsibility on medication
manufacturers for funding the safe disposal of their products. (Att-02)
Methodology
The Grand Jury conducted website research regarding drug bin disposal programs
in the County. The Grand Jury interviewed local law enforcement agencies for
information on their drug bin disposal sites. During on-site visits to all six Ventura
County Sheriff's substations and the five city police departments, the Grand Jury
verified drug bin availability, accessibility and procedures. The Grand Jury organized
its findings into a table. (Att-01)
Following the passage of SB 212, the Grand Jury expanded its research of current
drug-bin disposal programs to include information on disposal of sharps
(hypodermic needles, pen needles, intravenous needles, lancets and other devices
that are used to break the skin of people and animals).
The Grand Jury examined California regulations regarding safe drug and sharps
disposal and how those regulations are implemented in other counties throughout
the State. The Grand Jury also reviewed publications from the California Product
Stewardship Council (CPSC), which has helped more than a dozen counties to obtain
stewardships for drug disposal ordinances. The Grand Jury organized eight of these
ordinances into a table. (Att-02)
The Grand Jury looked at publications from the MED-Project LLC, which operates
stewardship plans on behalf of drug companies. The mission of MED-Project is to
implement an accessible, convenient and comprehensive program for the collection
of household-generated pharmaceutical waste. (Ref-11, Ref-12) (Att-02)
Facts
FA-01. In 2009, VCBH's Alcohol and Drug Program (ADP), in collaboration with
the VCSO, established a countywide drug disposal program. The program
encourages residents to safely dispose of unused or expired medications
in secure, confidential disposal bins at law enforcement facilities. Through
proclamations in 2012 and 2017, the BOS has supported the drug disposal
program. (Ref-13)
FA-02. In fiscal year 2014-2015, 18% of 769 County adult residents surveyed by
VCBH used drug disposal bins. (Ref-14)
FA-03. In 2017, according to VCBH, the use of drug disposal bins by County adult
residents remained static at 18%. (Ref-15)
FA-04. In response to the escalating opioid epidemic, the Ventura County
Rx-Abuse & Heroin Prevention Workgroup (Workgroup) was established in
2012. A goal of the Workgroup, which is composed of numerous agencies,
is "to inyvease community awareness of the risks of opioid misuse and
engage'support for safe and secure disposal." The Workgroup does not
include Ventura County Animal Services. (Ref-16)
2 Drug and Sharps Disposal
142
Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
FA-05. Another of the Workgroup's goals, put forward in a 2017 presentation
entitled "Reducing Supply, Saving Lives, Reducing Demand," is to "multiply
the number and convenience of Rx disposal sites." (Ref-16)
FA-06. From 2014 to 2019 the number of drug disposal sites at law enforcement
facilities in Ventura County has been reduced from ten to nine. (Ref-17)
(Att-01)
FA-07. According to the Workgroup's 2017 presentation, "Since 2009 over 16 tons
of Rx drugs have been collected and destroyed by the Ventura County
Rx-Abuse and Heroin Workgroup partners in the Ventura County Sheriff's
Office." (Ref-16)
FA-08. VCSO has standard operating procedures for drop-off bin collection. The
bins are designed to allow staff to empty and weigh the entire assortment
of miscellaneous pharmaceuticals with minimal handling. Prescription
drugs are not separated from OTC drugs, such as cold and flu remedies
and vitamins. (Att-03)
FA-09. The VCBH website provides a link to a list of some, but not all, law
enforcement agencies that have drug disposal bins and refers the public
to "call your local police department for safe, confidential drop-off bins."
(Ref-18)
FA-10. Phone inquiries by the Grand Jury to local police and Sheriff's departments
resulted in contradictory information. (Att-01)
FA-11. A Grand Jury visit to the Santa Paula Police Department revealed no drug
disposal bin.
FA-12. A Grand Jury visit to the Ojai Police Department revealed that its drug
disposal bin had been over-filled by pharmacies and doctors offices and
had therefore been removed from the lobby. Access to the bin required
staff assistance.
FA-13. A Grand Jury visit to the Oxnard Police Department revealed that proof of
city residency is required to dispose of drugs.
FA-14. A Grand Jury visit to the Simi Valley Police Department revealed that an
appointment is necessary to drop off drugs. Information regarding sharps
disposal was inconsistent.
FA-15. A study conducted by Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine from
January 2007 through December 2017 concluded that the increase in
opioid prescriptions for pets during that period paralleled a rise in similar
prescriptions for people. (Ref-19)
FA-16. All nine drug disposal sites in Ventura County accept pet medications;
however, there is no public information specific to veterinarians or pet
owners on safe storage and disposal of prescriptions for pets.
FA-17. Disposing of used medical sharps in the trash, recycling bin, or flushing
them down the toilet is illegal in California, according to the State Health
and Safety Code. These disposal methods pose serious health risks to
Drug and Sharps Disposal 3
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Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
children, sanitation staff, water treatment facility operators and the public.
(Ref-20)
FA-18. An estimated one million Californians inject medications, and 936 million
needles are used by self-injectors in California each year. A 2018 study by
Environmental Research and Education Foundation and the Solid Waste
Association of North America found that 95% of self-injectors improperly
dispose of sharps. (Ref-10)
FA-19. A Grand Jury visit to the six Sheriff's substations revealed that all have
drug drop-off bins, but none have bins for sharps disposal.
FA-20. A Grand Jury visit to city police departments revealed that all except
Ventura and Santa Paula have drug drop-off bins. Only the Port Hueneme
Police Department has a bin for sharps disposal. (Att-01)
FA-21. A number of counties in California have already developed ordinances
requiring pharmaceutical companies to establish and pay for a local drug
collection program based on the EPR model. (Ref-03, Ref-04, Ref-05, Ref-
06, Ref-07, Ref-08, Ref-09)
FA-22. In a sampling of eight counties with drug disposal programs based on the
EPR model, the Grand Jury found it took up to two years for the counties
to write and implement their ordinances. (Att-02)
Conclusions
C-01. The Grand Jury concluded that among the County law enforcement facilities
that have drug disposal bins, there is a lack of information and consistency
in public guidance regarding disposal of all medications, particularly for pet
owners. (FA-09, FA-10, FA-11, FA-12, FA-13, FA-14, FA-15, FA-16) (Att-
01)
C-02. The Grand Jury concluded that the BOS has not yet addressed the issue
regarding the disposal of sharps waste, a requirement of SB 212, when it
becomes effective January 1, 2021. (FA-01, FA-17, FA-18, FA-19, FA-20)
(Att-O 1)
C-03. Based on recent surveys, the Grand Jury concluded that VCBH has made
no progress in increasing public awareness and use of drug disposal bins.
(FA-02, FA-03)
C-04. The Grand Jury concluded that VCBH and the Rx-Abuse & Heroin Prevention
Workgroup have failed to increase the number and convenience of drug
disposal bins. (FA-04, FA-05, FA-06)
C-05. The Grand Jury concluded that VCBH's assertion that more than 16 tons of
prescription drugs have been collected since 2009 is misleading. This is
because VCSO's procedures for drug collection do not allow for the
separation of prescription drugs from over-the-counter drugs prior to
weighing. (FA-07, FA-08) (Att-03)
C-06. The Grand Jury concluded that drug disposal ordinances already in effect
in many counties throughout the State provide for safe disposal of
4 Drug and Sharps Disposal
144
Ventura County 2018 - 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
unwanted, unused or expired medicines and sharps. Any of these
ordinances could serve as a model for Ventura County. (FA-21, FA-22)
(Att-02)
C-07. The Grand Jury concluded that although not specifically mandated until
January 2021 by SB 212, a manufacturer-funded collection and disposal
program for unused drugs and sharps would significantly increase the
effectiveness of the County's current drug disposal program. The program
would also reduce the risks to public safety, health and the environment.
(FA-01, FA-02, FA-03, FA-04, FA-06, FA-08, FA-09, FA-10, FA-11, FA-12,
FA-13, FA-14, FA-15, FA-16, FA-17, FA-18, FA-19, FA-20, FA-21, FA-22)
(Att-01, Att-02)
Recommendations
R-01. The Grand Jury recommends that the BOS consider adopting the EPR model
for drug and sharps waste disposal throughout the County in order to
develop a uniform program that can be used by all County law enforcement
agencies and departments. (C-01, C-02, C-03, C-04, C-05, C-06, C-07)
R-02. The Grand Jury recommends that the Ventura County Animal Services be
included in the process of developing and implementing any future drug
and sharps disposal program. (C-01, C-02, C-03, C-04, C-05, C-06, C-07)
R-03. The Grand Jury recommends that all law enforcement agencies update their
websites and other sources of public information. Information should
include, but not be limited to, guidance regarding the availability of disposal
bins for drugs and sharps, accessibility requirements to the bins and
directions for disposal. (C-01)
R-04. The Grand Jury recommends that VCBH revise its methodology and
reporting of prescription and over-the-counter drugs collected and
destroyed to eliminate misleading results. (C-05)
Responses
Responses Reauired From:
Ventura County Board of Supervisors (C-01, C-02, C-03, C-04, C-05, C-06, C-07)
(R-01)
Ventura County Sheriff (C-01) (R-Oi, R-03)
City Council, City of Port Hueneme (C-01) (R-03)
City Council, City of Santa Paula (C-01) (R-03)
City Council, City of Oxnard (C-Oi) (R-03)
City Council, City of Simi Valley (C-01) (R-03)
City Council, City of Ojai (C-01) (R-03)
City Council, City of Ventura (C-01) (R-03)
City Council, City of Camarillo (C-01) (R-03)
Drug and Sharps Disposal 5
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Ventura County 2018 - 2019 Grand Jury -- Final Report
City Councir, City of Thousand Oaks (C-01) (R-03)
City Council, City of Moorpark (C-01) (R-03)
City Council, City of Fillmore (C-01) (R-03)
Resoonses Requested From:
Director, Ventura County Behavioral Health (C-03, C-04, C-05) (R-04)
Director, Ventura County Animal Services (R-02)
References
Ref-01. Thousand Oaks Acorn, June 30,2016 "Ventura Coounty sheriff's deputy
accused of stealing drugs from prescription drop-off bin"
https: www + morn.com/aticlesfventura-capnty-she.rifs-deputy=
accused-Df-stealing, Jrugs-from-prescription-drop-off-bin/
Accessed April 10, 2019
Ref-02. SB 212 Solid Waste: pharmaceutical and sharps waste stewardship
https:ffleginfo.legisJature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?hill
20 .8056212
Accessed April 10, 2019
Ref-03. Safe Drug Disposal Ordinance Passes in Contra Costa County
http://www.contracosta.ca,govlDocumenJTc nter/ViewJ43867/201 -12-
20-Safe-Dr -Disposal-Ordina
Accessed ApriC 25, 2019
Ref-04. San Mateo County Safe Medicine Disposal Ordinance
https://www.smchealth.nrc/ger1 ral-•inform onlsafe-medicine-disposal-
ordinn
Accessed April 25, 2019
Ref-05. Marin County Safe Drug Disposal Ordinance
haps:f ww.marincounty,orgldepts/cd/divisionsjenvironmental-health-
services/stye-drug-disposa l-ordinance
Accessed April 10, 2019
Ref-06. San Francisco Ordinance: Safe Drug Disposal
httas:lisfbos.org/ftpluploadedfilesibdsup+rr gr inances151o0031-
15.pdf
Accessed April 10, 2019
Ref-07. San Luis Obispo Ordinance No. 2018-1
tittps://iwma,cornlwp-
e.ntluploads/recyclistluserfiles/Ordiinance%2 018-
An%200rdinance%2QEstablishing°I% OA% OProduct°1f205tewardship
°fo20Disposal%20Program%20F�r 020Hom a% Oenerated°Io20Used%2
OSharDs%20and °20Unwanted R2QPrescriotion tIOMedicine.pdf
6 Drug and Sharps Disposal
146
Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jure Final Report
Accessed April 10, 2019
Ref-08. Santa Barbara County Environmental Health Services: Extended
Producer Responsibility Stewardship Ordinance
https://ww_w.countyofsb.org/phdiensisafe-drug-disposal.sbc
Accessed April 10, 2019
Ref-09. Santa Clara County Safe Drug Disposal Ordinance
h ttp s:l/www.sc&g9v.o rg sjteslrw rj P a g es/safe m e d s.asp x
Accessed April 10, 2019
Ref-10. California Product Stewardship Council
https://calpsc.org/products/pharmaceuticals/city-count, dances-
safe-disposal-sharps-o harmaceuticalsf
Accessed April 1.0, 2019
Ref-ii. MED-Project
httos:Ilinecl-oroj
Ventura County 20.18 - 2019 Grand Jury Primal Report
http://www.venturacourresource documents/PPT% 0[OR
%20DH° Q11; 4 °f924RX°i 2OSLIDE .pdf
Accessed April 10, 2019
Ref-18. County of Ventura Behavioral Health, Alcohol & Drug Programs,
'Prescription BE OTC Drugs: Ry. Disposal Sites'
http:l/venturacounttlimits.orglenj orevention/arescriotion_otc/rx
Accessed April 25, 2019
Ref-19. CBS News, January 11,201: Painkiller prescriptions for pets may be
contributing to opioid epidemic, study warns
https://www.cbsnews.corn/news/painkiller-use-in-pets-may-be-
contributing-to-opioid-epidemic-study-warns/
Accessed April 25, 2019
Ref-20. Health and Safety Code Section 118286(a), Chapter 9
http://leginfo,legislatsr , gQvtfaces/codes displaySection.xhtml?lawC
ode=HSC§ionlium=1182$
Accessed April 25, 2019
Attachments
Att-01. Drug Bin Accessibility and Collection Procedures at Ventura County Law
Enforcement Facilities
Att-02. Sampling of Safe Drug Disposal Program Ordinances
Att-03. Ventura County Sheriff's Office, Camarillo Station Standard Operating
Procedure
8 Drug and Sharps Disposal
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Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Glossary
TERM DEFINITION
ADP Alcohol & Drug Program
BOS Ventura County Board of Supervisors
County County of Ventura
CPSC California Product Stewardship Council
Extended Producer Also known as Product Stewardship, places a shared
Responsibility (EPR) responsibility for end-of-life product management on
the producers and all other entities involved in the
product chain, instead of solely on local government
and the end-user
Fiscal Year Ventura County Fiscal Year = July 1 through June 30
Grand Jury 2018-2019 Ventura County Grand Jury
Medication Prescription drugs (those that a pharmacist dispenses
only on the order of a medical practitioner) and over-
the-counter drugs (those that consumers can purchase
without a prescription)
Opioids Class of drugs that includes heroin, synthetic opioids
such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally
by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®),
hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine and many
others
Over-the-counter Medications that consumers can purchase without a
drugs prescription
Pharmaceutical Any kind of drug used for medicinal purposes, such as
cough syrup or sleeping pills
Prescription An order for medication written by a medical
practitioner
Rx A common abbreviation for medical prescriptions
Sharps Hypodermic needles, pen needles, intravenous
needles, lancets and other devices that are used to
break the skin of people and animals
State State of California
VCBH Ventura County Behavioral Heath
VCSO Ventura County Sheriff's Office
Drug and Sharps Disposal 9
149
Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Attachment 1
Drug Bin Accessibility and Collection Procedures at
Ventura County Law Enforcement Facilities
10 Drug and Sharps Disposal
150
Venal ouety 201L- 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Lobby
Gtf
Ws, an Access to Drugs/
Enforcement Agency 1Nebirto Lobby Rows Orug Bir Sharpes Cornrn€nts
8AM-9PiA
Carnari[Iaf11VfSO IV Lobby NON
Maedair--Friday
FilrmorefvcSO N 8 AICA-SPM Lobby Y/i4
Monday-Friday
MlonrParltJVESU N 8 AM-5 PM Lobby 'ON
Monday-Friday
Staff assistance needed
BAM-SPM Seg
Ojai('ICSON Monday -Friday Comments Yf Unsecured dispnsa.
"drawer'
Thousand OaksfVCSO N 8 AM-5 PM Lobby Yf N
Monday-Friday
Headquarters/VCSO N SAM-5 RM Lobby YfN
Mtxnday-Friday
Proof of residency
{ 8AM •SPM
nardPrrlice Department N qued
Monday-Thursday CommentsYfN InformatiSee on on a+rapia bit+ty
Every other Friday
of Drug 8in inconsistent
Port Hueneme/ 7.30 AM- 5:30 PM
N MOnday-Thursday Lobby Yf
Police Department Every other friday
Salta Pau
Police Department A NSA N/A tdfN
?ppa4ntntent needed
Simi Valley/ 7:30 AM- 5:30 PM See
Police DepartmentN Monday-Friday Comments Yf F I^forma#i4 on a++aii8biki#y
of Ships Bin inconsistent
Ventura/ 730 AM - 5;30 PM
N/A 14/N
?oke Departmeric Wanda./ Friday I
Drug and Sharps Disposal - 11
151
Ventura County 2018 - 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Attachment 2
Sampling of Safe Drug Disposal Program Ordinances
12 Drug and Sharps Disposal
152
Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
BOS Approval Ordinance BOS Approval to
Jurisdiction Date No.* Operational Time
Alameda July, 2012 0-2012-27 26 months
County
Contra Costa December, 2016 2016-24 Unable to determine
County
Marin August, 2015 3635 18 months
County
San Francisco March, 2015 31-15 15 months
City and County
San Luis Obispo March, 2015 2015-1 Unable to determine
County
San Mateo April, 2015 04736 18 months
County
Santa Barbara June, 2016 4971 21 months
County
Santa Clara April, 2017 NS-517.91 23 months
County
*All above ordinances have been amended to include sharps
disposal.
Drug and Sharps Disposal 13
153
Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Attachment 3
Ventura County Sheriff's Office,
Camarillo Station Standard Operating Procedure
14 Drug and Sharps Disposal
154
Ventura County 2018 — 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Ventura County Sheriff's Office
CAMARILLO STATION
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: Pharmaceutical Drop-off Bin
Date Issued: March 14, 2011 Prepared By: Sergeant Jim Bullington
Date Revised: October 1, 2016 Revised By: Sergeant Greg Sharp
Authorized By: Captain Cory Rubright
Purpose
To establish a procedure for the voluntary drop-off and collection of pharmaceutical drugs.
Departmental Impact
Police Services--Camarillo Police Department
Background
The City of Camarillo, in collaboration with the Camarillo Police Department and the Ventura
County Sheriff's Office, has a program that otters a convenient canfidentiaf drop box where
Camarillo residents can deposit unused or expired pharmaceuticals, in an effort to divert harmful
drugs away from the environment and children.The drop box is located in the lobby of the
Camarillo Police Department.
Definitions
Pharmaceuticals are medications, including both over-the-counter prescription drugs such as
painkillers, hormones, antidepressants, antibiotics, cold/flu remedies, OTC medications and
veterinary medicines.
Drug and Sharps Disposal 15
155
•
Ventura County 2018 - 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
Procedure
Camarillo residents are encouraged to utilize the collection bin located in the public lobby of the
P.D. during normal business hours, Monday thru Friday- 8AM to 5PM. This program is not
intended for commercial use, and is restricted from receiving mail, batteries,trash, pill bottles,
and sharps (syringes, needles, diabetic testers, etc...) as posted on the exterior of the bin.
• The Station Captain and Administrative Sergeant will maintain positive control over the
keys to the pharmaceutical collection bin and the bin's night lock.
• The collection bin will be checked on a regular basis.The bin's feeder shoot will be
locked when the station's lobby is closed.
The Administrative Sergeant will be responsible for overseeing collection and booking of
contents of the pharmaceutical bin.
• The collection bin contains a cardboard box that correlates with the Sheriff's Property
Room storage requirements.The box is lined with a heavy duty trash liner.The intent of
the box and liner is to allow staff to package and book the pharmaceuticals with minimal
handling,therefore minimizing staffs exposure to the pharmaceuticals.
• In an additional effort to minimize staff's exposure to the pharmaceuticals,the public is
asked to place pills, tablets, and other solid pharmaceuticals into clear plastic ziplock
bags and discard of all packaging and empty pill bottles prior to depositing the
pharmaceuticals in the bin. Liquids and blister packs should be left in their original
containers and put into a clear plastic ziplock bag as an extra precaution to guard
against leaks.The ziplock bags are available for distribution at the Camarillo Police
Station's front counter.
• A sworn Deputy and designee shall empty the collection bin together to insure that the
integrity and chain of evidence is maintained.
• A report number will be generated and attached to a property report.The contents shall
be weighed and documented on the report.
• The cardboard box shall be removed from the bin and immediately sealed within
department evidence standards.The box will be weighed and then labeled as would any
evidence placed into the property room.The labeling shall include the appropriate
language and descriptors identifying drugs, and shall specify that they are booked for
destruction. It should also include the content's weight (taking the tare of the box off).
Do Not Itemize
• The box(s)will be booked into the Camarillo P.D.property room utilizing the appropriate
methods. The Property Room will collect all items within our evidence room for transport
to the main Property Room in Ventura.
16 Drug and Sharps Disposal
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Ventura County 2018 - 2019 Grand Jury Final Report
This page intentionally blank
Drug and Sharps Disposal 17
157
California Penal Code Sections
Penal Code 933
No later than 90 days after the grand jury submits a final report on the operations of any public
agency subject to its reviewing authority,the governing body of the public agency shall
comment to the presiding judge of the superior court on the findings and
recommendations pertaining to matters under the control of the governing body,and
every elected county officer or agency head for which the grand jury has responsibility
pursuant to Section 914.1 shall comment within 0 days to the presiding judge of the
superior court,with an information copy sent to the board of supervisors,on the findings
and recommendations pertaining to matters under the control of that county officer or
agency head and any agency or agencies which that officer or agency head supervises or
controls.
Penal Code 933.05
(a) For purposes of subdivision(b)of Section 933,as to each grand jury finding,the responding
person or entity shall indicate one of the following:
(1)The respondent agrees with the finding.
(2)The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding,in which case the response
shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of
• the reasons therefore.
(b) For purposes of subdivision(b)of Section 933,as to each grand jury recommendation,the
responding person or entity shall report one of the following actions:
(1)The recommendation has been implemented,with a summary regarding the implemented
action.
(2)The recommendation has not yet been implemented,but will be implemented in the future,
with a timeframe for implementation.
(3)The recommendation requires further analysis,with an explanation and the scope and
parameters of an analysis or study,and a timeframe for the matter to be prepared for
discussion by the officer or head of the agency or department being investigated or
reviewed,including the governing body of the public agency when applicable.This
timeframe shall not exceed six months from the date of publication of the grand jury
report. •
(4)The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not
reasonable,with an explanation therefore.
(c) However,if a finding or recommendation of the grand jury addresses budgetary or personnel
matters of a county agency or department headed by an elected officer,both the agency or
department head and the board of supervisors shall respond if requested by the grand
jury,but the response of the board of supervisors shall address only those budgetary or
personnel matters over which it has some:decision making authority.The response of the
elected agency or department headshall address all aspects of the findings or
recommendations affecting his or her agency or department.
(d)A grand jury may request a subject person or entity to come before the grand jury for the
purpose of reading and discussing the findings of the grand jury report that relates to that
person or entity in order to verify the accuracy of the findings prior to their release.
(e)During an investigation,the grand jury shall meet with the subject of that investigation
regarding the investigation,unless the court,either on its own determination or upon
request of the foreperson of the grand jury,determines that such a meeting would be
detrimental.
(f)A grand jury shall provide to the affected agency a copy of the portion of the grand jury report
relating to that person or entity two (2)working days prior to its public release and after
• the approval of the presiding judge.No offcer,agency,department,or governing body of a
public agency shall disclose any contents of the report prior to the public release of the
final report.
Arty
158
Grand Jury
800 South Victoria Avenue
Ventura,CA 93009
county Of VEntUla 05)477-1603
fax;{805)477-4523
1600
grandiury.countyofverrtura.org
Response to GrandJury Report Form
Report Title:
Report Date:
Response by: Title:
FINDINGS/CONCLUSIONS
• I (we) agree with the findings/conclusions numbered:
• 1 (we) disagree wholly or partially with the Findings f Conclusions numbered:
(Attach a statement specifying any portions of the Findings /Conclusions that are
disputed; include an explanation of the reasons.)
RECOMMENDATIONS
• Recommendations numbered have been implemented.
(Attach a summary describing the implemented actions and date completed.)
• Recommendations number have not yet been implemented, but will be
implemented in the future.
(Attach a time frame for the implementation.)
• Recommendations numbered require further analysis.
• Recommendations numbered will not be implemented because they are
not warranted or are not reasonable.
Date: Signed:
Number of pages attached:
159
ATTACHMENT 3
Grand Jury
800 South Victoria Avenue
Ventura, CA 93009
(805)477-1600
Fax: (805)658-4523
grandjury.countyofventura.org
Response to Grand Jury Report Form
Report Title: Drug and Sharps Disposal Report
Date: July 17, 2019
Response by: Janice Parvin Title: Mayor - City of Moorpark
FINDINGS I CONCLUSIONS
• I (we) agree with the findings/ conclusions numbered: _C-01 R-03 _
• I (we) disagree wholly or partially with the Findings/ Conclusions numbered:
___________
(Attach a statement specifying any portions of the Findings/ Conclusions that are
disputed; include an explanation of the reasons.)
RECOMMENDATIONS
• Recommendations numbered _ ____ have been implemented.
(Attach a summary describing the implemented actions and date completed.)
• Recommendations number R-03 have not yet been implemented, but will be
implemented in the future.
(Attach a time frame for the implementation.)
• Recommendations numbered require further analysis.
• Recommendations numbered __ will not be implemented because they are not
warranted or are not reasonable.
Date: ________________________ Signed: ________________________
Number of pages attached: __2__
160
City of Moorpark City Council Responses to Ventura County Grand Jury Drug and
Sharps Disposal Report
Page 2
GRAND JURY REPORT FINDINGS (in italics)
AND CITY OF MOORPARK CITY COUNCIL RESPONSES
C-01 “The Grand Jury concluded that among the County law enforcement facilities
that have drug disposal bins, there is a lack of information and consistency in
public guidance regarding the disposal of all medications, particularly for pet
owners. (FA-09, FA-10, FA-11, FA-12, FA-13, FA-14, FA-15, FA-16) (Att-01)”
City Response: The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office (VCSO), is the contract law
enforcement agency for the City of Moorpark. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office
understands the importance of disposal of unused/expired prescription medications as
well as sharps disposal. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office has designated public
lobbies at all patrol stations available for residents to dispose of drugs during regular
business hours. None of the patrol stations offer sharps disposal. The Moorpark Police
Station offers a bin in the public lobby to dispose of unused/expired prescription
medication. There is no disposal bin for sharps. Sharps may be disposed of at a
number of locations in the County of Ventura including Moorpark Family Care Clinic at
612 W. Spring Road, Suite A, Moorpark, phone number (805) 523 5400.
RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATIONS:
R-03 “The Grand Jury recommends that all law enforcement agencies update their
websites and other sources of public information. Information should include, but not be
limited to, guidance regarding the availability of disposal bins for drugs and sharps,
accessibility requirements to the bins and directions for disposal. (C-01)”
City Response: The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office (VCSO), is the contract law
enforcement agency for the City of Moorpark. The Moorpark Police Station is not
equipped to handle sharps disposal due to the necessary manpower as well as the
ability to monitor sharps disposal bins on a continuous basis. The lack of needed
monitoring could lead to improperly disposed of needles which can be hazardous to the
residents who routinely visit police lobbies. In some cases such as criminal
investigations or other law enforcement contacts, sharps are safely collected by patrol
deputies and disposed of in sharps containers at the Ventura County Sheriff’s Property
Room located within the Moorpark Police Station. Disposal of sharps in these
circumstances is manageable due to the small volume.
The Moorpark Police Department agrees with the recommendation of offering sources
of public information to communicate drugs and sharps disposal. This will be done
through press releases, utilizing the various social media platforms offered by the
Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, Moorpark Police Department, and the City of Moorpark
(e.g. Facebook, Twitter and NextDoor). The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office has agreed
161
City of Moorpark City Council Responses to Ventura County Grand Jury Drug and
Sharps Disposal Report
Page 3
to provide links on its website to direct citizens to locations for drug disposal, including
pet medications, and types of sharps disposal. The City of Moorpark has agreed to post
links on its website to direct citizens to information and locations for drug disposal,
including pet medications, and types of sharps disposal by July 30, 2019.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office will create an agency-wide policy on
unused/expired prescription drug bin drop off. Employees of the Moorpark Police
Department will be responsible for adhering to this policy.
162