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Department of Correction further restricts on-site programming

Precaution against COVID-19
April 3, 2020

The Delaware Department of Correction announced that it has further restricted on-site programming in its facilities as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. 

The announcement follows restrictions announced March 22 for on-site program volunteers who are over the age of 60 or have an underlying health condition that could make them more vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus.  The restriction announced today is effective immediately.

"We are taking deliberate steps every day to protect the health and well-being of our staff, inmates, contractors and members of the public," Commissioner Claire DeMatteis said.  "That means we must make difficult choices about who has access to our facilities.  We recognize the impact of our many program providers who contribute to quality of life among our inmates and their reentry success through opportunities for faith exploration, self-improvement, and community engagement.  Where possible, we are working to continue these initiatives through virtual video programming."

DOC is committed to maintaining as much programming as possible at its Level V prison and Level IV work release and violation of probation facilities during the COVID-19 response.  The Department has identified essential programming that will continue to be provided in-person by on-site providers, including drug treatment, sex offender, and DUI programming.  Certain programs and activities, including prison education and religious services, will continue by utilizing video conference capabilities.  Other programs impacted by the restriction will have the option to continue through a web-based video platform, where available.

Get the latest news and information about the DOC’s response to COVID-19 on https://doc.delaware.gov and follow DOC at decorrection on Facebook and Twitter.

 

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