Full Notification

​The Vigo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed today that Covid-19 testing was initiated for all Vigo County Jail detainees following the recent death of an inmate who subsequently was determined to test positive for Covid-19. It is noted that the inmate’s cause of death has not been conclusively established by medical authorities. Nevertheless, the Sheriff’s Office contacted the Indiana State Department of Health for assistance and recommendations for testing inmates at the Jail. As of today, 102 detainees have testified positive for Covid. All are in the care of jail medical personnel and are stable. No inmates have required hospitalization or any treatment beyond the scope of the jail’s medical staff on site. Two correctional officers also have tested positive and have isolated until cleared for return to work. Test results are pending on 11 other jail detainees. The Sheriff’s Office has initiated the following action plan based on the recommendation of the State Department of Health and in compliance with directives from the county courts: Positive inmates have been segregated in the jail separately from inmates who have tested negative. The county jail currently is under lockdown for an indefinite period until medical personnel advise that it is safe to resume normal operations. Food service has been adjusted consistent with health care recommendations. Inmates will have limited access to visitors for a period of at least two weeks. These steps are re-evaluated daily based on ongoing testing and recommendations of medical personnel. The Sheriff’s Office has implemented multiple Covid-related protocols since earlier this year guided by medical staff and the Indiana State Department of Health. Detainee testing has occurred on the basis of symptoms. Until this week, no positive tests were reported. New jail admittees are routinely quarantined for 14 days after admission and prior to transfer into the general jail population. This protocol also was cleared with public health authorities. Jail employees have been using masks for an extended period of time. Masks have been provided for discretionary use of detainees as of last Friday. Family members of inmates may direct questions or concerns to the sheriffs office at 812-462-3226 x7301 John Plasse Vigo County Sheriff