As part of ongoing efforts to address the COVID-19 virus, all visits to individuals in custody at the Cook County Department of Corrections (DOC) will be suspended until further notice, effective Sunday, March 15, Sheriff Thomas J. Dart announced today.
While there are currently no known cases of COVID-19 in the DOC, the decision to suspend visits was made based on the recommendations of the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control, the Department of Justice, and other state and local health officials.
During this time, attorneys and clergy members will be able to visit individuals in custody but will be screened by staff for symptoms of COVID-19. Staff are also working to expand opportunities for individuals in custody to communicate with their loved ones by phone.
The health and safety of DOC staff, individuals in custody, and the public will continue to be the primary concern of the Sheriff’s Office.