Being a police officer is risky. Being a good officer is dangerous. Just two weeks ago in Philadelphia, Sgt. James O’Connor was shot and killed serving an arrest warrant. With COVID-19 every contact you make could impact you. That speeding car? The driver could be infected. It does not have to be a criminal or a law breaker that is infected.
It could be a convenience store clerk, or possibly someone who asks for directions Anyone can be infected. A contingent of officers are stationed at COVID-19 testing sites across the city. It was only a matter of time. The Philadelphia Police Department has. released the fact that an “unspecified number of city employees have tested positive for COVID-19 including the police department, not necessarily those officers who work those sites. The city is not identifying the officers assignments or identities. In fact WAWA on the 2500 block of Aramingo Avenue is closed for a deep cleaning , after an employee tested positive for coronavirus.
Firefighters, medics and police are on the front lines but now so are streets department workers, sanitation workers, health department workers and anyone else who is outside working. As for the police department, Commissioner Outlaw issued a statement
The Department continues to provide employees with the tools and information needed to work during this pandemic. “I anticipate there will be additional, positive cases in the future. I can assure everyone that all proper precautions have been, and are being taken, to reduce the spread of the virus. I want to thank each and every member of the Philadelphia Police Department for their steadfast commitment during these unprecedented times. Words cannot fully express my gratitude to each of them. No matter the challenges, they continue to show up ready and willing to work,” said Commissioner Outlaw.
Even