The City of Champaign has confirmed a Champaign Police Officer has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee is currently recovering at home in isolation and does not require hospitalization. The employee’s identity and specific work responsibilities will not be released, nor will the City comment on their medical condition to protect the individual’s privacy. The employee will not be permitted to return to work until the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District deems it appropriate.
Any City employee who may have recently been in direct contact with the officer has been notified and instructed to self-quarantine and monitor their health status. Anyone else who may have recently been in direct contact with the officer, including members of the public, are also being notified in accordance with public health protocols.
“First and foremost, I am saddened to confirm COVID-19 has hit Champaign Police, and our thoughts are with our officer for a full recovery and a quick return to public service,” said Chief of Police Anthony Cobb. “Our Department has been proactive in taking as many precautions as possible to reduce exposure for our officers and the public, and we will continue to do so. We have worked tirelessly to prepare in the event that one of our employees tested positive. I want to reassure the community that we remain fully operational and able to deliver responsive public safety services.”
Champaign-Urbana Public Health District Administrator Julie Pryde said, “Our agency is working closely with Champaign Police and City officials regarding this recent diagnosis. We are making sure that all appropriate protocols are being followed to identify any individuals who may have been in direct contact with this officer and to provide them with appropriate guidance regarding the need to self-quarantine. The top priority of our local healthcare providers during this crisis is to provide the best care for our community by promptly identifying the COVID-19 virus and minimizing exposure.”
City Manager Dorothy Ann David added, “Our City organization is concerned for the health and well-being of our fellow employee and all other persons impacted by this. This is a time where we must support one another. Our employees are on the front lines helping everyone to get through these trying times. I am confident that through the City’s emergency preparedness and planning, we are taking all measures to protect the safety and wellness of our employees and the public. I want to assure everyone that our Police Department will continue to provide the high level of professional services expected by our community.”
The City continues to engage in a coordinated response to the COVID-19 outbreak with our local government and private partners from across Champaign County. Residents are encouraged to visit champaignil.gov/covid-19/ for the latest information about the City’s response and any temporary adjustments to City services. We thank our community for its patience, understanding, and cooperation as we work through these challenging times together.
To protect the privacy of this employee, no further information will be released to the public.