LA Jails — Where 3K Inmates Have Tested Positive For COVID-19 — Gets Recommendations To Stem Virus

The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department needs to do more to control the spread of coronavirus in the jail population, according to a new report from the Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission.

Commissioners are urging these actions:

• A continuing and aggressive reduction of the jail population
• The provision of adequate supplies for cleaning and personal hygiene
• Testing for any inmate or staff member who has COVID-19 symptoms or has concerns about exposure
• Testing of inmates before they’re released into the community
• More video arraignments to reduce movement to and from court

As of Sept. 8, nearly 3,000 inmates had tested positive for COVID-19, according to the report. Six inmates who tested positive for COVID-19 have died in custody, although the report notes that it has not been determined whether the virus caused their deaths.

The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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• Sheriff's Watchdog Commission Finds LA Jails Need To Do More To Control Spread Of Coronavirus

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