SMETHPORT — The McKean County Jail is weathering the storm of the current pandemic, using a “business as usual” approach to daily operation and handling concerns related to the spread of COVID-19 when necessary.
According to Sheriff Dan Woods, both staff and inmates are healthy at this time.
“We have no issues, no cases at the jail,” Woods noted.
The close proximity of inmates in correctional facilities has led to concerns about how fast illness can spread in other, harder hit areas. While other facilities have opted to release inmates due to concerns about the pandemic, Woods said that all releases from the jail are through the judge and by court order. There is no current policy for the jail to release inmates due to COVID-19 concerns.
As with many other facilities where the individuals are at a higher risk if exposure occurs, visitation to the jail has been suspended.
“Visitation is really suspended until further notice. I can’t predict a date, it is suspended until it is safe and appropriate to (lift the suspension),” Woods said.
In a note related to matters handled by the sheriff’s office, Woods explained that the State of Pennsylvania has granted an extension for pistol permits that expired March 19 or later. The permits will remain valid until May 30. At that time, they may be re-evaluated if circumstances dictate.
