The Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Advisory Council is a group of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including business and community leaders, law enforcement officials, nonprofit service providers, attorneys, and judges. They all have a common goal of improving the fairness and effectiveness of the justice system in Oklahoma County. Every quarter, they release reports detailing the progress of county-wide reform efforts. You can download the complete report by clicking the link below.
Three highlights from the Q3 report:
Mental health resources expand with Edmond Urgent Recovery Center
In March, the City of Edmond, a CJAC partner, held a grand opening ceremony for a new behavioral health Urgent Recovery Center (URC). As a community, one of the most pressing needs is the expansion of behavioral health resources. This expansion is expected to deflect and divert county residents away from the justice system and jail, and towards the help they need.
Oklahoma County jail population average continues downward trend
The population average at the Oklahoma County jail is continuing to decline in the third quarter of fiscal year 2024. This quarter's average is lower than the averages of the previous two quarters, and also lower than the average population of 1,534 in fiscal year 2023.
$2.4 million in SQ781 funding being utilized to expand treatment and diversion options This funding was approved by voters in State Question 781. A portion of the funds will be used to expand the county's pretrial diversion and alternative sentencing programs by hiring additional attorneys in the District Attorney's and Public Defender's offices. This is to ensure that court cases keep moving toward the dismissal of charges. In addition to this, the funding will also be used to hire new supervision engagement officers and recovery navigators. This will help ensure that individuals have the support they need to successfully complete their treatment and diversion programs. Finally, the funding will be allocated for transportation and housing services, as well as medication compliance services. This will ensure that participants can stay current with their prescribed medication.
Read our full 3rd Quarter Report to learn more.