Brownwood News – In a press conference Tuesday morning in the courtroom of Brown County Judge, Dr. Paul Lilly, he urged calm during this time of uncertainty as it pertains to the COVID-19 virus.  It was reported that, as of Tuesday, March 17, there have been no reports of the virus in Brown County or West Central Texas.

Seven people in Brown County have, however, been tested for the COVID -19 virus.  According to the Brownwood/Brown County Health Department officials at the meeting, Lisa Dick and Cliff Karnes, of the seven tests done for COVID-19 in Brown County, returns on 4 of them have been negative.  Three (3) test results are still pending. The local health department has the test kits.  Tests are then sent to a Lab Response Network in Fort Worth for results.

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“In my opinion, there is no need to be hoarding toilet supplies and cleaners and food.  We’re not anywhere near that yet.  We don’t even have a single positive case yet, even in Abilene and Taylor County, which is three or four times our size.  Eventually, sure, it’s probably going to spread, just like the flu.  Whether it comes to Brown County, I don’t know.  The health department has prepared us so well, we’ve gotten word out there on how to minimize exposure,” Judge Lilly said.

Judge Lilly said plans are for a core group of government, law enforcement and health officials to meet every Monday morning at 11 at the courthouse to go over the latest information on the virus.

CLARIFICATION – Judge Lilly wishes to clarify his statement from the press conference yesterday.  District Court trials have been postponed for the next two weeks.  All other District Court business is being conducted as usual.

If you have questions about an appearance, please call the District Court directly.

Judge Lilly is still hearing misdemeanor cases in his courtroom.

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