Inmates in Arizona’s prisons have asked a judge to order the state to develop an adequate plan for confronting the new Coronavirus behind bars.
Their lawyers say prison conditions and the state’s lack of preparation put the lives of older prisoners with chronic illnesses at risk.
The Arizona Department of Corrections, Re-entry and Rehabilitation says it has taken steps to reduce the potential spread of the virus, such as suspending a $4 co-payment on inmates who seek medical care for cold and flu symptoms.
As of Tuesday morning, 18 coronavirus cases have been reported in Arizona.
There have been no cases reported in Arizona state prisons.
