After 2 requests for a phone interview with Regional Radio News regarding how Illinois prisons are handling the coronavirus outbreak, Illinois Department of Corrections Public Information Officer Lindsey Hess e-mail'ed us late yesterday afternoon, saying she could not grant our request.  Hess did release a written statement which said the following:

"Our response to COVID-19 continues to be deliberate and aggressive. We are taking vigorous steps to protect our staff and men and women in custody from this disease, including thoroughly reviewing those who are eligible for early release, appropriately quarantining or isolating men and women in custody, and equipping staff with personal protective equipment. Our top medical and security personnel are stationed at our statewide command post resolutely working to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within our facilities. We continue to work closely with the Illinois Department of Public Health and Illinois Emergency Management Agency to ensure we are following all guidelines put forth by the Centers for Disease Control. 
 
"The Department has taken a number of steps to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including, but not limited to:
 
• On March 20, all correctional facilities statewide were placed on Administrative Quarantine with restricted movement.
• On March 14, the Department suspended visitation at all correctional facilities. 
• Facilities with confirmed cases of COVID-19 are being placed on lockdown with only emergency medical movement. 
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is being provided to all staff statewide. 
•We are working with the Governor’s Office and Prisoner Review Board to thoroughly review individuals who are eligible for early release.
• The Department modified its Pandemic Influenza and Continuity of Operations plans.
• Hand sanitizer, antibacterial soap, and cleaning supplies are being made available to all staff and incarcerated individuals. We are closely monitoring our supply levels at each facility and are in close communication with our vendors to maintain adequate inventory.
• All staff are being screened and having their temperature checked at arrival to their correctional facility.
• All interagency transports have been suspended with the exception of medical and mental health appointments, and emergency transfers. 
• Per Governor Pritzker’s executive order, all county jail intakes have been suspended.
• All correctional facilities and transport vehicles are being routinely cleaned and disinfected.
• Staff and incarcerated individuals are being encouraged to practice good health habits, including hand-washing.
• We are communicating regularly with staff and people in custody to ensure they feel safe."
 
Hess added that IDOC will continue to monitor this fluid situation and adjust their procedures as necessary.