Reports of bedbugs at courthouse spark concern among workers

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – Reports of bedbugs at Providence’s main courthouse have raised alarms among employees and others who frequent the building.

The Providence Journal reports that Family Court Chief Judge Michael Forte sent an email to staff Thursday confirming reports of bedbugs in parts of the fifth floor at the Garrahy Judicial Complex.

Courts spokeswoman Kara Picozzi says a pest control company has been performing treatments but denied any infestation.

A labor union representing some court employees says it’s filing a health grievance requesting immediate action.

A Sept. 7 letter from a court administrator told staff about reports of insects but denied any infestation.

Lawyer David Slepkow told The Journal that the public should have been informed sooner and lamented that he has to return to court Friday despite concerns over the bugs.

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