Officials Aren't Itching to Close Courthouse Over Bedbug Sightings

Friday, September 21, 2018 | 0

Despite calls from labor unions to shut down the courthouse because of bedbugs, court administrators have said it's not such a biting concern and plan to keep the building operating.

Union officials and courthouse regulars have complained for weeks about the itch-causing insects on several floors of the Garrahy Judicial Complex in Providence and don't feel that the issue is being taken seriously, according to local TV news.

"It's a serious situation, and I don't know that they're taking it to the level I think it should be taken," said Michael Downey, president of the state chapter of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. "I firmly believe the building should be closed." 

A court administrator said exterminators have reported only five confirmed bedbugs in recent weeks, and the building will be treated if warranted. Officials planned a meeting for today to discuss the problem with all building workers.