The John A. Bell Adult Correctional Facility is now clear of all active COVID-19 cases. In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the Bureau of Corrections medical staff remains vigilant and stands ready to take quick action and tackle any future situation.
As it stands, the bureau’s medical staff has conducted consistent mass testing for its 133 inmates/detainees and have tested all 55 correctional staff members and 38 civilian staff at the John Bell Adult Correctional Facility as of Aug. 20.
Staff members who are vaccinated have submitted their proof of vaccination, and those who are still unvaccinated will be required to show weekly proof of a COVID-19 negative test. Of the previously reported positive cases among inmates, all have now recovered and have since tested negative. No inmate required hospitalization.
The lockdown at the correctional facility has now been lifted but with strict adherence to the COVID-19 protocols. In-person visits, work details and prisoner furloughs remain suspended, as they have been since the start of the pandemic. Court hearings held virtually remain unaffected. Attorneys may visit with prisoners via secure video conference by contacting the facility to schedule a video visit.
Director Testamark said, “The margins between life on the inside along with staff and vendors constantly maneuvering in and out the facility and transfers of incarcerated individuals makes it even more critical to follow concrete steps to minimize the COVID-19 risk at our facilities in accordance with CDC guidelines, new and emerging practices coupled with weekly strategy hurdles.”