Sheriff Duane E. Burgess, Announces Precautionary Measures In Reference To The Coronavirus (COVID-19).
The Johnson County Jail is limiting access to visitors as a precautionary measure in reference to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Inmate video and remote visitation will continue as normal at this time. We will continue to allow attorneys into the facility to visit their clients through the glass barrier. All jail programs and visits by volunteers have been suspended in an effort to prevent the COVID-19 from entering the facility. We will continue to monitor this situation and reevaluate this restriction based on the newest information.
All newly processed inmates undergo a medical screening at the time of intake. The screening includes a temperature check and health-related questions. The Johnson County Jail has extensive procedures in place, including isolation and quarantine plans, should incarcerated persons test positive. All jail staff are required to wear masks at all times while in the jail and are required to wear full PPE, including gowns and gloves, when going in the isolated cell blocks with known infections. Inmates who are confirmed positive are being kept in separate blocks from those that still have results pending and those that test negative. All inmates are issued surgical masks which are being replaced if they are damaged or excessively worn. Inmates cannot be forced to wear the masks but most are cooperating.
Non-essential office services are being provided within limitations. This includes gun permits, fingerprinting, in-person records requests, obtaining copies of reports and related activities. The preferred for obtaining these services follow:
You will see restrictions as well regarding our deputies who patrol the road. Some calls for services will be handled over the telephone such as reports. Emergency call responses will remain the same and we will still perform our public safety duties.
Our goal in limiting these services is to minimize the spread of the virus through contact and to protect members of the public and our employees.
This is a fluid situation and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office will continue to collaborate with our community and state partners to identify any needs or concerns related to COVID-19.
Respectfully,
Sheriff Duane E. Burgess
