Submitted information:
As cases of the COVID-19 Delta variant continue to rise, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office has also seen an increase in positive cases among staff and detainees in the Adult Detention Center.
After mass polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing on July 28th, 51 individuals tested positive for the novel coronavirus; however, the majority are not exhibiting symptoms.
To keep people safe and reduce the spread of the virus, Sheriff Owens has implemented the following measures:
individuals receive a rapid test upon booking in the Adult Detention Center;
upon booking, detainees are placed in a separate pod for 14 days;
detainees may request a COVID-19 test at any time;
any detainee exhibiting symptoms will receive a test and be placed in a separate pod; and
masks are now mandatory, regardless of vaccination status.
“The data is clear; the Delta variant is especially dangerous for the unvaccinated,” said Sheriff Craig D. Owens, Sr. “I urge our employees and all detainees to take advantage of the free, safe COVID-19 vaccine for their safety and the safety of the general public.”
The Sheriff’s Office has already vaccinated more than 475 detainees and continues to work with the county judges to vaccinate those with upcoming court trials.
“Unfortunately, misinformation has resulted in vaccine hesitancy within the Adult Detention Center,” the sheriff added. “We are organizing a vaccine education clinic with outside professionals to address detainees’ concerns and encourage full participation in our next vaccine clinic.”
The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to doing everything possible to keep detainees safe during this unprecedented time.
Related story:
- Cobb Police to hold ‘National Night Out’ event
- Fall session of Cobb Public Safety Citizens Academy announced
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