BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Kern County Sheriff’s officials said that the Lerdo Detention Facility’s water had recently detected the presence of a “low amount of diesel range organics,” and have issued a “do not drink” order for all inmates at Lerdo, including staff.
Officials issued a temporary water advisory last week for the facility as part of ongoing maintenance.
KCSO said it has been trucking in clean, drinkable water from outside of the facility and providing it to the inmates at each housing unit through water coolers. All inmates have access to this water, said officials.
Deputies said they routinely test the water used at Lerdo.
Kern County Public Health has been notified of this issue, and they have recommended that inmates not shower at this time. However, arrangements are currently being made to accommodate the inamtes a shower schedule through other water sources, which is still in the works.
RELATED: Temporary water advisory issued at Lerdo Detention Facilities during maintenance project
All of the water tanks at Lerdo are being cleaned. Filters are being installed in the showers to eliminate the contaminants, said KCSO. An outside vendor is currently testing the water multiple times a week.
Kern County General Services, the Kern County CAO’s Office, and the California Board of State and Community Corrections are working with the department to find a long-term fix for this issue.
The cause of the contaminated water is under review, but deputies said that it’s suspected that the water was pumped in from the groundwater table.
The Kern County Sheriff’s Department stated:
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The safety and security of the incarcerated persons in our custody is of the upmost importance, and the Sheriff’s Office is doing everything they can to ensure a safe environment for everyone at Lerdo.