Visits to Fresno County jails suspended by sheriff amid concern of coronavirus spreading

Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims on Friday suspended all in-person and video conferencing visits at Fresno County jail sites, acting on the recommendation of the Board of State and Community Corrections due to concerns over the spreading of coronavirus.

Sheriff’s spokesman Tony Botti said there was no timetable for when the restrictions would be lifted.

The decision followed a similar decision Thursday afternoon in Tulare County by Sheriff Mike Boudreaux.

The Fresno County decision applies to the general public, program officials, religious officials and tour groups. Legal visits will be allowed.

Jail lobbies will remain open for people to conduct business such as property collection and live scan services.

Inmates will be allowed to make calls 24 hours a day.

This story was originally published March 13, 2020 at 12:13 PM.