Deputy Tests Positive For Coronavirus: Harford Sheriff

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — A deputy within the Harford County Sheriff's Office tested positive for the new coronavirus, according to authorities. The officer works within the investigative services bureau and was last at work Thursday, March 26, according to Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler, who said the officer did not have symptoms at the time.

"The deputy is feeling better and is expected to make a full recovery," Gahler said in a statement Friday evening. The sheriff said in a statement at 5:15 p.m. that he was informed within the last hour of the first positive test result in his ranks.

"While a positive test result within our ranks was anticipated, it is no less concerning," Gahler said. He thanked those on the front lines, including the officers in his agency, for "providing public safety in our County in the face of this threat."

There are 41 people in Harford County who have tested positive for the virus as of Friday morning, according to the Maryland Department of Health.

Gov. Larry Hogan said the virus was widespread, speaking at a news conference Friday afternoon.

"We now have widespread community transmission," Hogan said. "This virus is everywhere and it is a threat to nearly everyone."

No matter what, the sheriff said people should know that deputies are taking steps to keep the public safe, and the agency is ready to serve the community.

"Our citizens should not be discouraged from calling 911 to report a crime or in case of an emergency," Gahler said. "The Harford County Sheriff’s Office is taking many reports over the phone with our Telephone Reporting Unit and deputies are taking every opportunity to practice social distancing and using personal protection equipment, when needed."

Officials say they are tracing who had contact with the deputy who tested positive for coronavirus and will inform them.

See Also:

• Maryland Coronavirus: 2,758 Confirmed Cases, 42 Deaths
• Coronavirus: Harford Sheriff Shuts Lobbies, Deputies Use Distance
• 'Virus Is Everywhere,' Nursing Homes, Infants: MD Coronavirus