In a troubling development, 38 officers from the Capitol Police have tested positive for COVID-19 since the insurrection that occurred on January 6. Alongside them, approximately 150 members of the National Guard have also contracted the virus, according to reports from CBS News. The New York Times highlighted that many of the rioters did not wear masks, raising concerns that the events could lead to a significant outbreak affecting both law enforcement and local communities.
Gus Papathanasiou, chairman of the U.S. Capitol Police Labor Committee, expressed his frustration, noting that the union has consistently raised concerns with the Capitol Police leadership since March 2020. “We have been advocating for testing and vaccines, but the leadership issues within the USCP have been disappointing,” he stated in an email to DCist.
The total of 38 affected officers reflects a worrying trend, as infections among Capitol Police have surged post-riot, with reports indicating that seven members of Congress have also tested positive. To identify additional cases, rapid COVID-19 tests were administered to officers.
Papathanasiou criticized the continued failures of the department’s leadership, stating, “The congressional community and the officers who risk their lives daily deserve better than this kind of management.” The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is also facing a rise in COVID-19 cases, with 580 personnel confirmed as positive since January 6.
Acting MPD Chief Robert Contee noted that some teams within the department have been particularly affected. Meanwhile, the National Guard and Capitol Police have coordinated efforts to ensure that stationed Guard members are provided adequate accommodations during their extended shifts.
On a positive note, MPD command staff received their first COVID-19 vaccinations, marking a step towards safeguarding the health of those serving the community during this public health crisis.
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