By STU JOHNSON
CREDIT WKYT.COM
The Fayette County Jail recorded its first COVID-19 case among inmates in early August. To date, there have been 99 inmates test positive along with 11 staff members. Almost 800 inmates and well over a hundred staff members have undergone testing.
Jail Public Information Officer Matt LeMonds says the jail population has been receptive about mask wearing and other preventive measures.
“So we’re very fortunate the inmate population is taking it very seriously and working with us in trying to keep themselves safe in addition to the stuff we’re doing to try and isolate those that may be more susceptible or may be at a higher risk of having it,” said LeMonds.
LeMonds said the vast majority of inmates testing positive for coronavirus has been asymptomatic. Court ordered releases have lowered the overall jail population to around a thousand. LeMonds noted prior to COVID, it stood at more than 1200. The jail PIO said a close relationship with the Fayette County Health Department has proved invaluable.
Here’s more with Matt LeMonds with the Fayette County Jail: Listen here.
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