MPD staff to start wearing face masks, coverings

Monday, Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo said the department’s staff will start wearing personal protective equipment to curb the spread of COVID-19.

"You may see the men and women of the Minneapolis Police Department wearing masks and face coverings. While mask and face coverings are not a standard part of the MPD uniform, and some may find it uncomfortable engaging with an officer wearing a mask, I ask for your understanding during these unprecedented times," Arradondo said in a statement. "This is just one way we are working together to help slow down the spread of the coronavirus."

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Arradondo said staffing models and schedule changes have also been put in place.

The chief did confirm that one staff member has tested positive. He added that other staff members have gone through quarantine periods.