Coronavirus

Fingerprinting for employee background checks, gun applications suspended over COVID

This 2020 electron microscope image provided by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases - Rocky Mountain Laboratories shows SARS-CoV-2 virus particles which cause COVID-19, isolated from a patient in the U.S., emerging from the surface of cells cultured in a lab.
This 2020 electron microscope image provided by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases - Rocky Mountain Laboratories shows SARS-CoV-2 virus particles which cause COVID-19, isolated from a patient in the U.S., emerging from the surface of cells cultured in a lab. NIAID-RML via AP

The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office will temporarily halt the collection of fingerprints for employment background checks and concealed carry applications because of concerns about COVID-19.

It also will stop collecting fingerprints for Class III weapon applications. All applicants should expect delays, a news release said.

The suspension of services will start at 8 .m. Jan. 12 and last through Jan. 31.

The office also will do many offender registrations by phone. First-time offenders and those experiencing homelessness still must register in person.

Fees for January registrations will be due when someone comes in for their next in-person registration. Those who have questions should call the Offender Registration Unit at 316-660-3939.

The Offender Watch website is still active at www.sedgwickcounty.org/offender-search

Eduardo Castillo
The Wichita Eagle
Eduardo covers crime and breaking news for The Wichita Eagle. His previous work experience includes stints at KWCH 12 Eyewitness News, the local CBS affiliate in Wichita, and as a marketing manager for a local real estate team. In addition to writing, Eduardo also enjoys still photography and cinematography. News tips? email at Edcastillo@wichitaeagle.com or call 316-268-6213.
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