(N.M.) Law enforcement officer tests positive for COVID-19, exposes 41 APD employees

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More than 40 Albuquerque Police Department employees—39 officers and 2 civilian workers—were exposed to a law enforcement officer who recently tested positive for COVID-19. APD has not disclosed which agency the officer works for.

Officers experienced different levels of exposure to the infected officer, over the course of several days, including during a multi-agency operation, according to APD.

The officers who may have been exposed to the virus were tested and placed into quarantine, APD spokesperson Gilbert Gallegos said.

Full statement from APD:

"Thirty-nine officers and two civilian APD employees were exposed to a law enforcement officer who recently tested positive for COVID-19. The officers experienced different levels of exposure over several days, including a multi-agency operation. As soon as they were notified of the exposure, officers were immediately placed on quarantine and tested for the virus, as part of our protocol. We are waiting for final results of those tests and will consult with our medical director before officers return to duty.

This is exactly why we are implementing safety protocols throughout the department to protect officers and prevent the spread of the virus. We have not had any officers test positive.

In addition to current protocols, area commanders were directed to spend time this weekend ensuring their officers are wearing masks during encounters with the public. Commanders and the Deputy Chief for Field Services will be out in the area commands starting tonight to enforce the directive." Gilbert Gallegos, APD spokesperson.

https://www.kob.com/albuquerque-news/apd-officer-tests-positive-for-covid-19-exposes-41-other-employees-/5704033/?cat=500