FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (20-130)

CONTACT Laura Strimple, Chief of Staff

OFFICE 402-479-5713 | laura.strimple@nebraska.gov

NDCS inmate tests positive for COVID-19

August 28, 2020 (Lincoln, Neb.) – Today, Director Scott R. Frakes announced that an inmate housed at the Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP) has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). As a result, three housing units at the facility are under quarantine while inmates are tested and contact tracing is completed.

“In this particular situation the individual was experiencing symptoms, but did not immediately notify medical staff,” said Dir. Frakes. “He was tested yesterday, and the result was confirmed today. Now, we are acting as quickly as possible to identify other individuals who may have been exposed.”

To facilitate that process, members of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) health services team will provide testing to 600 inmates.

“That includes those who live in the housing unit where the affected inmate resides and two other housing units nearby,” stated Dir. Frakes. “In addition, we have staff following up with the affected inmate to identify anyone with whom he had close contact.”

Dir. Frakes said the plan is to complete testing by the end of the day, with the expectation that it might take several days for the results to return.

“While that process is underway, movement on those units will be limited and precautions undertaken to ensure that the potential for transmission from this point forward, is greatly reduced,” said Dir. Frakes.

The agency took similar steps back in May when inmate tested positive from the Community Corrections Center – Omaha (CCC-O). That facility was under quarantine for two weeks.

“Obviously, we are talking about a greater number of inmates in this situation, but we are acting swiftly and following the appropriate protocol for keeping all inmates and staff members healthy and safe.”

Since the onset of the coronavirus, 14 inmates across NDCS have tested positive for COVID-19.

###