Essex County Corrections Officers join fight to defeat COVID-19

MIDDLETON — Eight Essex County Sheriff’s Department correctional officers who have recovered from COVID-19 are donating plasma in hopes of helping other coronavirus patients in their recovery.

Officers Antony Yan, Timothy Banahan, Brendan Walsh, Patrick Wortham, John Mahoney, Michelle Mitchell, Almir Hamidovic, and Paul Costa have fully recovered from the virus, which makes them candidates to donate what is called “convalescent plasma.” The plasma contains COVID-19 antibodies which can attack the virus in patients suffering from the illness.

“These officers are going above and beyond the call of duty to help others in this battle against COVID-19,” said Sheriff Kevin Coppinger. “The men and women of the Essex County Sheriff’s Department always put public safety first. These donations demonstrate the courage and dedication of all correctional officers, especially during trying times.”