Will County deputy tests positive for COVID-19

Will County Sheriff Mike Kelley announced on April 6 that one of his deputies tested positive for the novel coronavirus, COVID-19.

This is the first Sheriff’s employee who has been reported with the virus, according to a press release issued by the department.

The male deputy is a member of the Sheriff’s Gang Suppression Unit and began experiencing symptoms 10 days ago, the release noted.
The deputy is at home and has self-quarantined since then.

Approximately two weeks ago, the deputy and three other Sheriff’s deputies from the Gang Suppression Unit, and an officer from an outside agency, were performing a narcotics seizure and were in close proximity to each other. It is believed that it was during that seizure that the deputy contracted the virus.

The other officers have been tested, are at home, and awaiting test results.

The officer from the outside agency is experiencing symptoms; the three Sheriff’s deputies are currently symptom-free, the release stated.
Sheriff Kelley was also notified on Monday that an administrative nurse who works for Wellpath, the medical provider who is contracted for the Adult Detention Facility, has also tested positive for COVID-19.

The nurse had no significant contact with ADF staff nor inmates. She began feeling ill on Thursday, April 2 and is currently at home.
Sheriff Kelley, his command staff, and employees of the Sheriff’s Office, are troubled by this news but remain vigilant and are closely monitoring and following recommended state and federal guidelines during this outbreak as they continue to keep our communities safe.