FREEPORT – A positive coronavirus test from a police prosecutor in Freeport, Grand Bahama has resulted in the isolation of court staff and prosecutors.
The officer tested positive on Thursday, prompting health officials to begin contact tracing and testing. He is reportedly recovering at home.
Bahamas Court News understands that magistrates, support staff, prosecutors and judges will remain in isolation until they receive their test results.
The judiciary on Sunday announced the temporary closure of the Garnet Levarity Justice Centre. Courts have remained open with limited operations since March.
A press release said, “This action is taken out of an abundance of caution pending the completion of ongoing investigations by health officials.”
Grand Bahama has emerged as a coronavirus hotspot since the country reopened its borders to international traffic on July 1. Of the 49 new cases recorded since then, 31 are on Grand Bahama.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis placed restrictions on the island to curb community spread.
Dr. Minnis imposed a 7pm to 5am curfew that takes effect today.
Additionally, he banned gatherings, inclusive of religious services, weddings, funerals and sporting activities. This not include students taking national exams.
Effective midnight Wednesday, international and domestic borders will close to all incoming and outgoing air and sea vessels.
The prime minister banned ferry boat operations between East End, Grand Bahama and Crown Haven, Abaco as of 5am today.
Restaurants can only offer takeout and curbside services, while bars and all fish frys remain closed.
