Miami’s motorcycle cop squad is self-quarantining after escorting Brazil president
The Miami Police Department’s entire motorcycle patrol unit joined the growing list of South Floridians who decided to self-quarantine Thursday after the press secretary to Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro tested positive for COVID-19.
Miami Police Chief Jorge Colina said the 21 officers were part of the dignitary protection team that augmented the Secret Service and escorted Bolsonaro and his press secretary, Fabio Wajngarten, around while they were in the Miami area.
“It’s out of an abundance of caution,” Colina said. “They were in contact during photo-ops or might have shaken hands.”
Bolsonaro has been tested for the virus, though the results aren’t expected until Friday.
Colina said the officers will remain isolated for up to 14 days and follow health department protocols, like checking their temperatures. So far none are exhibiting signs of the disease.
Earlier Thursday Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez both said they were self-isolating after being near or coming into contact with Wajngarten and Bolsonaro as they made their way through South Florida and up north to President Donald Trump’s home at Mar-a-Lago.
Also self-isolating after meeting with Bolsonaro were Florida Sen. Rick Scott and Doral Councilwoman Claudia Mariaca.
The White House said Trump, who met with Bolsonaro and was photographed next to Wajngarten, had no plans as of Thursday to be tested for the virus.
Miami Herald staff writer David Ovalle contributed to this report.
This story was originally published March 12, 2020 at 7:14 PM.
