Aaron Hernandez was removed from the general population of Bristol County Jail and placed in solitary confinement. Authorities relocated the former New England Patriots star because of safety concerns, TMZ reports.
Hernandez, who has been in jail since Wednesday, was moved to a "Class 2 Unit," where he is isolated from the general population.
"The reason for this move is simply to protect him," Bristol County Sheriff Tom Hodgson told reporters. "We wouldn't want some inmate trying to get any notoriety by attempting to harm Aaron Hernandez."
While the ex-tight end is technically in solitary confinement, the same restrictions don't apply.
"He can have access to the phone, yard for fresh air, and the common room," Hodgson said.
Hernandez is allowed three hours a day outside, and he can select five people to put on his visitors list.
He'll remain in the unit for at least a week, and then officials will reassess the situation and determine whether to move him to another unit.
Acclimation to his new living situation has been smooth.
"Having just met with him earlier after his evaluation, and for a man who has gone from 7,000-square-feet to a 10x7 cell, he is doing very well and seems to be taking the situation great," Hodgson added. "He is very respectful and calm. Also to this point he has had no special requests."
Hernandez was arraigned on Wednesday for one murder charge and five gun-related charges. A Superior Court judge the following day upheld the district court's decision to hold Hernandez without bail.
The case could take as long as a year to reach trial.
