COVID-19 hits Augusta County Sheriff's Office

VERONA - The Augusta County Sheriff's Office said a deputy has tested positive for COVID-19.

Lt. Aaron Le Veck, a spokesperson for the sheriff's office, confirmed the diagnosis Monday morning. 

In a press release, Le Veck said the deputy woke up Friday with symptoms related to COVID-19. The deputy was tested at Augusta Health in Fishersville, and the test was positive.

"The deputy is currently quarantined and hasn’t returned for duty since the diagnosis," the press release said.

The deputy was not identified.

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A second deputy, who had been in recent contact with the deputy who tested positive, has also been quarantined as a precaution.

Further measures were implemented Friday evening to reduce the spread of the virus, the press release said, including restructuring patrol sectors and assigning two deputies to consistently work and respond to calls together, barring any emergent situation.

Deputies continue to minimize direct contact with citizens by speaking to them outside their homes, if possible, and many reports are being handled by phone or through the agency's online reporting portal, the press release said.

Le Veck said staff have been provided with CDC recommended guidelines, including updates as they become available, and training material as it relates to PPE and COVID-19.

"Staff are strongly encouraged to don themselves with PPE gear in certain situations where direct or close contact is made with citizens, especially those who are displaying symptoms of the virus or have tested positive, provided they have the time/ability to do so," Le Veck said. "The PPE used will be dependent on the situation they are involved in."

He said masks are being used in the field, at times, and at the county courthouses.

"As you know, the governor has mandated them in some situations, though there are lots of exceptions to them being worn," Le Veck said.

At a handful of accidents and fires in Augusta County covered by The News Leader since the pandemic began, it appeared that many, including fire and rescue personell and state police, opted not to wear masks.

All county supervisors were notified Friday evening that two deputies had been quarantined, and that a contingency plan for the way the sheriff's office conducts business was activated.

“The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office continues to provide the best service possible to the citizens who live, work, or pass through the area, while also being cognizant of the risks of the virus to all," Sheriff Donald Smith said in the press release.

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