Benicia Police Officer Tests Positive For COVID-19

BENICIA, CA — A Benicia police officer is self-quarantined at home after testing positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, officials with the city of Benicia and Benicia Police Department said Monday in a news release.

The officer began experiencing symptoms Nov. 12 and sought testing; on Sunday the officer informed the city of the positive test result, Benicia Police Department Spokeswoman Irma Widjojo said.

The source of the infection had not yet been determined Monday, but the police department was working with the Solano County Public Health Department to assist with contact tracing while following and exceeding the health department's guidance, Widjojo said.

Based on department policy and health department recommendations, Interim Police Chief Mike Greene determined there was no direct exposure to the community prior to the officer's diagnosis, meaning the officer did not have close contact — defined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as coming within 6 feet of others for longer than 15 minutes — with any community members.

"Our staff members are directed to abide by county protocols to limit or prevent infection among themselves and with the public," Greene said. "Unfortunately, even with these precautions in place the nature of our work still puts our staff at a risk for infection. We want to assure the community that we are taking all steps to keep everyone safe and healthy."

City officials said the police department remains staffed and no disruptions in service are anticipated as a result of the positive COVID-19 test.

"Due to health privacy rights, the City is prohibited from providing any information about the identity of the affected officer," Widjojo said, noting that the city facilitates testing for all employees who may have been exposed to the virus.

"With the nationwide spike in COVID-19 cases, Benicia residents are reminded to minimize mixing with people outside your home, wash your hands often, and keep your distance and wear face coverings when out in public," she said. "If you experience symptoms, self-quarantine and get tested as soon as possible."