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Mohave County reports first COVID-19 case in jail system

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MOHAVE COUNTY, AZ — Mohave County officials say they have confirmed the first known case of coronavirus within the county's detention center system.

The inmate, a man between 30 and 40 years old, tested positive Tuesday for COVID-19. He reportedly did not show signs or symptoms, but has since been housed in medical isolation at the Mohave County Adult Detention Facility.

The inmate reportedly came into jail custody from out of state last month.

Jail staff are identifying those who came in contact with the inmate and say there may be as many as 10 people considered a “close contact,” including staff.

"Since early March, inmates and staff have gone to great lengths to prevent the introduction of the virus to the jail. Those steps include a screening process following CDC guidelines for all jail staff and new arrests as well as any person entering the secure area of the facility", said Captain Don Bischoff, in a press release. "This inmate was tested as part of the quarantine protocol and has not presented with any signs or symptoms of being infected with the coronavirus since coming into our custody.”