From The Trussville Tribune staff reports
MONTGOMERY — The Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) announced a 30-day moratorium on new intakes from county jails, in order to protect the inmate population, staff and the public.
“The restriction includes, but is not limited to, new commitments, court returns, and parolees and probationers who are revoked or sanctioned to a dunk,” the ADOC said in a statement. “During this time, the Department will continue to receive inmates with severe medical or mental health conditions, subject to the usual review process by the Department’s Office of Health Services.”
Prisons will provide additional health screenings to ensure inmates are not symptomatic before entry. ADOC I also reviewing intake procedures and intake dorm space.
“In addition to implementing system-wide preventative measures to prevent the virus from entering our facilities, the ADOC also is modifying internal protocols to best serve our inmate population who have been impacted by these altered processes and various safety precautions,” the ADOC added. “Effective immediately, the ADOC will extend both inmate yard time and snack line services at all our facilities. Other protocol adjustments remain under consideration for possible implementation.”
ADOC said it is monitoring the situation and working with the Alabama Department of Public Health and the CDC to follow recommended health and hygiene guidelines.