WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. - The Navajo Police Department confirms nine employees have tested positive for COVID-19 as of April 15.

The employees have been placed on self-quarantine and are monitoring their symptoms. As a precautionary measure, the police building in Chinle, Ariz. will begin the process of decontamination.

“The support staff with the Chinle district will be placed on administrative leave during the disinfection and sanitization process,” Chief Phillip Francisco said. “Because of our responsibilities to the community, we will continue to be vigilant and committed to answering calls of service while keeping the safety of the public a high priority.”

The department has been working diligently to secure more personal protective equipment for officers and staff but the shortage remains a challenge. In addition, the department is actively seeking the assistance of laboratories to test employees for their peace of mind and the overall safety of the department.

“We will continue to support our staff who are in self-quarantine. Our officers and staff remain optimistic and motivated to continue their service to the people. We continue to ask for the public’s assistance by adhering to the emergency orders in place to reduce the growth and spread of this disease,” Francisco said.

The names and roles of the staff members will not be released for their privacy and overall well-being.

“We understand the risks that all of our officers take every day and with the COVID-19 pandemic, the risk is escalated even higher. The safety of our officers is always the top priority that’s why it’s critical that everyone stays home as much as possible. When people take unnecessary risks, it creates more challenges and compromises the well-being of those on the front lines. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of our Navajo Police Officers,” Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez stated.