DeWine said Dawson did have underlying health conditions.

COLUMBUS, Ohio - A corrections officer at the Marion Correctional Institution has died from the coronavirus, according to Gov. Mike DeWine.

During his daily briefing on Wednesday, DeWine announced 55-year-old John Dawson tested positive for COVID-19 on March 30.

Dawson had worked at the facility since 1996. He worked in the control center handing out equipment to staff.

DeWine said Dawson did have underlying health conditions.

OSCEA/AFSCME Local 11 spokeswoman Sally Meckling told 10 Investigates by phone Wednesday that the union just learned a couple of hours ago about the death of Dawson.

Dawson, according to Meckling, was one of 26 staffers at Marion Correctional Institution to become infected from COVID-19.

10 Investigates spoke to Chris Mabe, the OSCEA local union president, which represents corrections officers across Ohio.

He who told us that John Dawson was a good officer and an asset to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.

Mabe also criticized DRC’s response to the coronavirus outbreak saying officers didn’t have proper personal protective equipment and that assignments have been changed.

10 Investigates reached out to DRC for a response.

We received a lengthy statement that pointed out several measures that the department said it has taken but did not answer our direct questions:

"DRC was notified today of the tragic passing of Correction Officer John Dawson from the Marion Correctional. Officer Dawson’s death was a result of complications associated with COVID-19. Officer Dawson was part of our DRC family for 24 years. Our hearts and deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

Our continued prayers and gratitude are with all of our 12,000 correctional employees who are working every day in our prisons and communities. The work they are doing is important, and their commitment during these challenging times is to be commended.

DRC continues to work closely with the Ohio Department of Health in implementing operational changes as we address the challenges associated with COVID-19. The Director communicates daily with the wardens across the state and emphasizes the importance of social distancing when it is possible in a correctional setting.

Here is an extensive list of some of the steps DRC has taken in response to COVID: