Five Test Positive For Covid-19 at Newton Command Police Station in St. Thomas, Leading to Closure of Facility

  • Staff Consortium
  • May 26, 2021
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ST. THOMAS — The Mariel C. Newton Command Police Station in Anna's Retreat has been closed after five employees stationed at the facility tested positive for Covid-19.

According to police spokesman Toby Derima, leadership of the V.I. Police Department was notified of the positive cases Sunday. As a result, employees who were potentially exposed were ordered to quarantine at home, Mr. Derima said. The Consortium learned of the matter Monday and sought details from Mr. Derima, who at the time said he was gathering information.

On Monday, the leadership team met with some employees possibly impacted and sent a notification to all employees regarding the matter. The station was closed for comprehensive cleaning, which was completed on Monday as a measure of precaution. "This temporary closure does not impact our ability to accomplish our core mission of protecting our community," stated the V.I.P.D. in its release.

"Additional actions being taken to address the issue include maintaining contact with Virgin Islands Department of Health, supporting our employees affected, advising staff to adhere to COVID-19 protocols, providing necessary protective equipment, and making testing available to persons potentially exposed to the virus," the police force said.

The Mariel Newton Command police station is scheduled to reopen on May 27. During this temporary closure, community members are advised to continue to call 911 for emergencies. If you need to visit a police station, the V.I.P.D. is advising that you visit the Richard Callwood Command station in downtown Charlotte Amalie for assistance.

 

 

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