COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) has announced that its director, Annette Chambers-Smith, has tested positive for COVID-19.
Chambers-Smith was tested on Friday after she began not feeling well. She received her positive test result on Monday.
The department says contact tracing has begun for staff who have been working at the Operation Support Center (OSC) and may have come in recent contact with Chambers-Smith.
According to ODRC officials, a vast majority of staff at OSC have been working from home since March. Chambers-Smith has not physically been inside a prison since June 26 and has not been at OSC since July 21.
“For months, managing COVID within Ohio’s prisons has been my single highest priority,” said Chambers-Smith, in a statement. “While I am focusing on my health and doing what is recommended – which is to monitor my symptoms and self-quarantine, I will continue to ensure DRC is taking all necessary steps and precautions to maintain the health and safety of all of our staff and incarcerated population. Our agency continues to be in good hands, and we are working together as a team during these challenging times.”
Chambers-Smith is currently working from and managing her symptoms at home, which are mild at this time.
