Prison Visitation Suspended: Coronavirus In Rhode Island

CRANSTON, RI — Amid concerns over the spread of the new coronavirus in Rhode Island, the state's Department of Corrections has suspended all visitors in prisons. The policy, which is effective immediately, will be re-evaulated on Wednesday, the department said.

"We are reducing the flow of people coming into the facilities to ensure everyone’s safety as we continue to respond to the coronavirus," the department said in a statement. "[We need] to do everything within our control to prevent the transmission of the virus within our facilities."

The policy follows in the footsteps of statewide initiatives to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Rhode Island. On Friday, Governor Gina Raimondo said she is strengthening policies at nursing homes, banning all visitors to protect healthcare workers and the elderly.

"There will be absolutely no visitation in the state of Rhode Island," Raimondo said. "I know it's hard, but you are forbidden to visit nursing homes. Period."

In addition, the governor called for the cancellation of all large events with 250 people or more. While healthy people can still go out to grocery stores and other public areas, anyone over 60 is asked to stay home as much as possible.

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