3 inmates, 2 Richmond City Sheriff’s Office workers test positive for COVID-19

RICHMOND, Va. -- The Richmond City Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday that three inmates and two staff members have tested positive for COVID-19 this week.

Officials say they have quarantined those who tested positive, or are displaying any symptoms, or may have come in contact with the positive inmates or staff members.

"We are working aggressively to schedule additional tests for the broader population of inmates and staff members for the safety of everyone," said a spokesperson.

"At the first sign of any symptoms (staff or inmate) we quarantine and quickly test individuals to determine a diagnosis."
Officials say they have also implemented a contact trace process to monitor and control spread.

Additionally, officials say there are no COVID-19 related hospitalizations.

"Richmond City Sheriff’s Office is deeply committed to ensuring the safety of the inmates housed at the Richmond City Justice Center, the staff, and everyone who enters into the facility," said a spokesperson.

"We have instituted all of the guidelines recommended by the CDC to include wearing masks, social distancing within the facility, and courts, hand washing/sanitizing, daily temperature checks, and increased janitorial cleaning throughout the day at the facility."

Officials say when new inmates come into the facility, they are not placed in general population. Instead, they are quarantined in an area strictly for new arrivals where they stay for a minimum of 14 days.