Four of Charlestown’s 20 full-time police officers test positive for COVID-19

"Charlestown has 20 full-time sworn officers making that an impact of 20% of the force," Town Administrator Mark Stankiewicz said.

CHARLESTOWN, RI (WLNE) – Four Charlestown police officers have tested positive for COVID-19, according to Town Administrator Mark Stankiewicz.

“Charlestown has 20 full-time sworn officers making that an impact of 20% of the force,” Stankiewicz told ABC6.

Police Chief Michael Paliotta told the Westerly Sun that the issue has not impacted the department’s ability to respond to calls or patrol-shift staffing. He admitted that it could if cases surge.

The officers were not believed to have had any contact with other town staff, Stankiewicz told the Westerly Sun.

Out of precaution, a total of 56 staff members were tested on Friday in the Charlestown Police Department parking lot.

The tests results of those 56 staff members have not been returned yet, according to the Westerly Sun.