3 employees at Blackwater River Correctional Facility in Milton test positive for COVID-19

Three staff members at the Blackwater River Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility in Milton have tested positive for the coronavirus, according to the company that operates the private state prison.

The Geo Group Inc. said in a news release that while the staff members had tested positive, no inmates had tested positive for COVID-19 as of Monday.

At the start of the week, the three staff members were self-quarantining at their homes with paid leave.

"All three employees are currently in good health," the release said.

The Geo Group stated that consistent with protocol, the company was working with the Florida Department of Health to identify any staff members who may have had contact with the three employees who tested positive. 

"As clinically necessary, inmates who require medical isolation will be placed on quarantine in separate housing areas to allow for medical staff to monitor their health and wellbeing," the release added.

Colin Warren-Hicks can be reached at colinwarrenhicks@pnj.com or 850-435-8680.