BSO Sheriff Says Division Misplaced 9 Workers to COVID-19
AL DIAZ / MIAMI HERALD
SUNRISE, Fla. (AP) — COVID-19 has had a staggering impression on the sheriff’s division in Broward County, Florida, the place BSO Sheriff Gregory Tony informed a memorial service for 9 workers who died from the virus that effectively over half the division’s 5,600 workers had been uncovered and 32% — or 1,800 workers — have contracted the illness.
“We didn’t lose one, two, three — we misplaced 9,” the sheriff mentioned, noting that the primary dying from the virus got here in April 2020.
The South Florida SunSentinel reported that black and white pictures of the victims had been on stage on the church in Dawn: Deputy Shannon Bennett, 39; Nikima Thompson, 41; Wiley Huff, 73; Lt. Aldemar Rengifo Jr., 54; Pamela Ford, 54; Stephen Adams, 42; Sgt. Shane Owens, 48; Edwin Sanchez, 61; and Tasha Blackwood, 54.
Tony informed their members of the family, pals and associates, that every one is significantly missed. A bell tolled 9 occasions of their honor. The sheriff was flanked by an honor guard as American flags had been positioned within the arms of their family.
Many states and cities are requiring public workers to be vaccinated in opposition to COVID, which is now the highest explanation for deaths of regulation enforcement officers this 12 months, and but infections proceed to unfold amongst police and different first responders, who’re amongst these most hesitant to get vaccinated.
In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis has prohibited vaccine mandates. The sheriff didn’t point out vaccines, however urged his individuals to stay vigilant, reminding the gang of a number of hundred that the pandemic shouldn’t be over.
