GPS bottles could be latest weapon in combating pill thieves

1/15/13 By Tom Hays

The proposal would provide bottles equipped with global positioning chips to pharmacies to mix in with their standard supplies. Should a robbery occur, police officials would be able to track the thieves.

NEW YORK — The New York Police Department wants pharmacies in and around the city to fight prescription drug thefts by stocking pill bottles fitted with GPS tracking chips.

Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly is expected to unveil the project Tuesday at a California conference on health issues hosted by former President Bill Clinton's foundation.

In prepared remarks provided in advance of his appearance, Kelly says the NYPD is concerned about a growing potential for crimes related to the black market for painkillers and other highly addictive prescription drugs.

He says the NYPD is proposing to distribute so-called GPS bottles for pharmacists to hide on their shelves with legitimate supplies. That way, if there's a robbery or burglary, police would be able to track the loot.

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