BUCYRUS — Crawford County Common Pleas Court Judge Sean Leuthold announced new guidelines as the Crawford County Courthouse prepares to reopen to the public on May 12.
On March 22, State Director of Health Dr. Amy Acton issued a stay-at-home order. To minimize the spread of COVID-19, the court found it necessary to close the courthouse to the public and to close for employees on Fridays.
As a result of Governor DeWine’s announcement on April 27 of the Responsible Restart of Ohio, Leuthold ordered all employees to resume their normal work schedules. After consulting with Crawford County Commissioners and other elected officials the court issued the following orders:
Effective May 4, and until further notice, the courthouse will resume operations on Fridays. Employees must measure their temperatures at home before reporting to work and if any employee has a temperature above 100.4 degrees or any other COVID-19 symptoms, they are not to report to work. Employees are subject to temperature checks upon the request of their department heads. Face coverings are required for all employees. Exceptions apply if it is not advisable by a healthcare professional, is against documented best industry practices, is a violation of the health department policy, is a violation of state of federal laws, if the employee is working alone in an enclosed office space or if there is a practical reason why the employee cannot wear the face covering. Employees were also ordered to clean their work areas on a regular basis and after each use by the public.
Anyone entering the courthouse is strongly encouraged to wear a face mask. However, it is not required. Each court and county department will implement procedures to allow appropriate social distancing to ensure public health and safety and clean their respective areas on a regular basis.
Persons will not be permitted to enter the Crawford County Courthouse if they have been diagnosed with or have had contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, have a temperature of 100.4 degrees, have been asked to self-quarantine by any doctor, hospital or health agency, have traveled to China, South Korea, Japan, Italy or Iran in the last 14 days or any other country that the court finds necessary including those who have had close contact with someone who has been asked to self-quarantine.
Visitors to the courthouse shall report any of the listed conditions to courthouse security at the screening area before entering. All persons entering the court will have their temperature measured. Anyone attempting to enter in violation of the orders will be refused entrance.
“Please be advised that this court is dedicated to and will endeavor to ensure that justice continues to be served and that all constitutional rights are protected,” Leuthold said.