Arrest of COVID-19 Positive Subject Leaves First Responders & Detention Center Personnel in Quarantine

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Five Corpus Christi Police Officers and seven City Detention Center (CDC) staff members are in isolation today after arresting and detaining, respectively, a COVID-19 positive suspect.

The officers responded to a call yesterday at the H-E-B located at Port Avenue and Tarlton Street. While making the arrest, a struggle ensued as the officers attempted to restrain the suspect. Officers were unable to maintain proper personal protective equipment during the arrest. The suspect was taken to the City Detention Center (CDC) and later released.

The Corpus Christi – Nueces County Public Health District later notified the Police Department the suspect had tested positive for COVD-19 on Monday, May 11, 2020.

Out of an abundance of caution, the five police officers and seven CDC staff members who came in contact with the individual will be tested and quarantined while waiting for their test results.

The City of Corpus Christi is committed to ensuring the safety of all employees, and will take necessary action to protect personnel, their families, and the community.