Rebecca Panico
NJ Advance Media Group
FANWOOD, N.J. — A Fanwood police officer tested positive for coronavirus and is self-isolating, the borough’s mayor announced on Wednesday.
The officer lives outside of Union County and the Westfield Regional Health Department determined the officer’s interaction with the public was minimal, Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr said. Those who have been in close contact with him have been notified and interviewed, Mahr added.
The borough said it learned of the cop’s results on Tuesday night.
“This should reinforce the need for social distancing, which is critical to the health and wellbeing of our community,” said Mahr. “Together we’ll get through this, but everyone has to do their part. We remind residents that anyone can be a carrier of the virus. Regardless of age or health, please consider the individuals around you and practice proper hygiene accordingly. We will come out of this a stronger community so long as we work together.”
There were 15 coronavirus cases in Union County as of Tuesday, according to the state health department. Statewide, there were 267 cases, with the largest amount in Bergen County.
Police departments around the state have started taking new measures to combat not only crime, but COVID-19. Many started taking complaints in over the phone or online, but are still responding to emergencies.
Meanwhile, a woman coughed on Hanover police officers and falsely told them she had COVID-19 after she was arrested in a car crash, police said on Tuesday. Her actions prompted three Hanover cops to self-quarantine and she was charged with making a false public alarm.