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Staffing Shortage Leads To Lockdown At Cook County Jail

(CBS)-- Cook County Jail has been placed on lockdown as a result of a staffing shortage, according to a statement on the Cook County sheriff's office's website.

The statement says the move is to protect officer safety as the staffing level dropped below the level needed for full operations.

While on lockdown, inmates are only allowed to move for medical reasons, emergencies and visitation only and discharges will still be processed.

"High call offs, such as those we we have experienced today, are unfortunate and put an unfortunate burden on the majority of our dedicated and hardworking staff," said a Cook County sheriff's office spokesperson. "The The compound has been placed on a limited lockdown to ensure staff and detainee safety. We wish to thank our staff for their dedication."

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