Chesterfield County sheriff, chief deputy test positive for COVID-19

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, S.C. — Chesterfield County Sheriff James Dixon and Chief Deputy Chris Page have tested positive for the coronavirus, according to a Facebook post by the sheriff’s office.

“Within a month, Chesterfield County has seen a 308% jump in coronavirus cases," the post reads. "As of today, two of those cases include Sheriff James Dixon and Chief Deputy Chris Page."

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According to the sheriff’s office, when Dixon and Page began developing symptoms, they immediately went to The First Responders Clinic and got tested. The department is currently working to conduct contact tracing and is monitoring employees for symptoms.

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Additionally, the sheriff’s office is sanitizing all equipment and vehicles, providing officers with masks, gloves and other protective equipment, which they have been doing for several weeks.

Dixon and Page have both self-quarantined themselves for the CDC recommended 14 days and will not return to the office until being cleared by their doctors.

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“On June 1, I issued a statement on Facebook where I said officers have a responsibility to lead by example and to provide a safe environment for all of our citizens,” Dixon said. “I take those words seriously. It is why Chief Deputy Page and I plan to do everything we can to reduce the chance of exposure to COVID-19 to our officers, families, and Chesterfield County citizens by following the CDC guidelines. We want everyone to practice physical and social distancing by limiting close contact with others to at least six feet if possible. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you are sick, stay home and keep away from people who are sick.”

While Dixon and Page are under quarantine, Maj. Briana Davis and Capt. Spence Vaughn will temporarily assume their duties.