How COVID-19 is spreading through California prisons

CALIPATRIA, Calif. (KYMA, KECY)-A virus that originated in Wuhan, China, has impacted almost every corner of the globe. And now, it makes its way inside our nation’s most secure and guarded facilities, the prisons.

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), confirmed their first coronavirus cases with two staff members on March 20. Two days later CDCR confirmed that an inmate had tested positive.

“There is one inmate at Lancaster that has tested positive for COVID-19," said Ralph Diaz, CDCR Secretary, in an informational video for CDCR.

Fast forward five weeks, more than 140 prisoners and 90 staff members at CDCR facilities have tested positive for coronavirus.

Just this week CDCR confirmed it’s first inmate death due to coronavirus complications, leaving family members worried about their loved ones behind prison walls.

“If he gets it, he’s at higher risk. He’s at the whim of the California Department of Corrections," said Kimberly Hernandez, spouse.

Hernandez, worried about her husband who is immune-compromised and is serving time at Calipatria State Prison, started protesting outside the facility after getting word that staff members were not following health protocols. Even after two employees tested positive for the virus.

“My husband called me and told me that some of the correctional officers in his building were not wearing masks and the food servers were also not wearing them. When he spoke out about it he got written up for it. All he did was say in a respectful way that he refuses to eat until they wear a mask. Now he’s lost his privileges," said Hernandez.

According to CDCR's coronavirus policies on their website, all staff members and inmates are required to wear face coverings on CDCR grounds.

Tune in to 13 On Your Side at 4 p.m. as Alexandra Rangel speaks to one inmate to see how COVID-19 affects prisons across California.