COVID-19

Kalamazoo public safety chief tests positive for COVID

Vernon Coakley Junior announced his positive COVID test on Thursday.
A portrait of new KDPS Chief Vernon Coakley
Vernon Coakley became Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Chief October 1, 2020 following the retirement of Karianne Thomas. Courtesy of KDPS

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The chief of Kalamazoo’s Department of Public Safety (KDPS) announced Thursday that he has tested positive for COVID-19. Vernon Coakley Junior has been chief of public safety since Karianne Thomas retired at the end of September.

“My COVID-19 diagnosis is an important reminder for our community to remain vigilant and continue taking the proper precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19,” Coakley said in a statement. “I will be self-isolating until I am cleared by medical professionals and will follow their guidance.”

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As of Thursday, Kalamazoo County has had 9,382 confirmed COVID-19 infections with cases rising dramatically in the past three months.

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