photo by: Mike Yoder/Journal-World File Photo

The Douglas County Jail is shown in this file photo from February 2015.

Visitation is suspended at the Douglas County Jail in accordance with the “stay at home” order that went into effect Tuesday, according to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

Jenn Hethcoat, public information officer, said via email Tuesday that inmates will be allowed two free 15-minute phone calls per week during the time visitation is suspended. Phone service is generally collect, according to the sheriff’s office’s website, dgso.org.

As the Journal-World has reported, the Douglas County health officer’s order to stay home except for essential needs will last through at least April 23. The order aims to slow the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19. It was not immediately clear Tuesday whether the suspension of visitation will follow the same timeline.

Contact Mackenzie Clark

Have a story idea, news or information to share? Contact public safety reporter Mackenzie Clark:

• • mclark@ljworld.com
• • 785-832-7198
• • Twitter: @mclarknews

More Lawrence Journal-World crime, courts and fire coverage

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Related coverage: COVID-19 + Crime, courts and first responders

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• March 21, 2020: Douglas County district attorney’s office closed to the public through April 3

• March 19, 2020: What you need to know: Lawrence-area law enforcement shares latest updates amid COVID-19 pandemic

• March 18, 2020: Kansas Supreme Court: State courts to conduct emergency operations only; cases won’t be dismissed

• March 18, 2020: Douglas County Jail visitations continue; would-be inmate sent away at intake to self-quarantine

• March 17, 2020: Douglas County District Court delays most hearings, jury trials amid COVID-19 concerns

• March 13, 2020: Some Douglas County Jail inmates could be released on furloughs if sick or at risk of COVID-19

• March 13, 2020: Douglas County District Court limits public presence in courtrooms, hallways amid COVID-19 outbreak

• March 12, 2020: Lawrence-area first responders not changing protocol for medical calls right now

• March 12, 2020: Douglas County Sheriff’s Office: Jail can accommodate quarantine, if needed

• March 12, 2020: Kansas Supreme Court asks local courts for plans to continue operations amid COVID-19 outbreak

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