Coronavirus continues to spread within Manatee County law enforcement agencies
The coronavirus continues to spread within law enforcement agencies in Manatee County as cases continue to surge in the community, the region and statewide.
In total, there were 28 officers and civilians positive for the virus as of Tuesday.
At the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, cases continue to grow with 24 deputies and civilian employees now positive for the virus. A week ago there were 18 who were positive, five of whom have since tested negative and returned to work, according to sheriff’s office spokesman Randy Warren.
Some of those currently positive for the virus at the sheriff’s office are on leave while those with minor to no symptoms who can work from home are doing so.
At the Bradenton Police Department, a dispatcher remains out after testing positive weeks ago. One detective who has tested negative after having contracted the virus returned to work, but now another detective has tested positive, according to police spokesman Capt. Brian Thiers.
At the Palmetto Police Department, two officers remain out with the coronavirus, Chief of Police Scott Tyler confirmed.
The Holmes Beach Police Department has one officer who is returning after testing positive. The officer was off work for about a month but has since twice tested negative.
Bradenton Beach and Longboat Key police departments have not reported any positive cases.
Law enforcement agencies in Manatee County do not require officers to wear masks.
This story was originally published July 14, 2020 at 3:23 PM.
