DALLAS - The Dallas Police Department confirms its second presumptive positive case of COVID-19. An officer, working out of Central Patrol tested positive for the coronavirus Friday, March 20. The officer’s last day on the job was Thursday, March 12. The individual has been isolated and is currently doing well. One coworker who met the definition of close contact, is currently quarantined as a precaution. We are working with the Dallas County Department of Health and Human Services on any other necessary steps that may need to be taken. In the meantime, the city’s contractor will be notified to begin cleaning and sanitizing the building for the well-being of all officers currently utilizing that space at Central. DPD’s Chief Medical Doctor, Alex Eastman is working closely and providing guidance to those officers who could have potentially come in contact and been exposed to the officer in question.
All possible measures are being taken to protect the officers and mitigate the spread of the virus. DPD has issued 3,200 bottles of 60% or more alcohol-based hand sanitizer as well as 6,000 boxes of gloves. Cleaning and sanitizing measures, particularly in common areas such as main entrances, restrooms, elevators, have been increased. Officers have also been given commercial cleaning and sanitizing products for their vehicles.
We know that some of our officers will contract the virus. DPD is prepared to address the issue with sound medical advice from our experts as well as a contingency plan to maintain operations to keep the community safe.