Hailey
Paul Timmons, Interim CEO of the Oklahoma County Detention Center, is openly acknowledging persistent systemic issues within the jail.
While improvements are underway, he cautions that resolving the jail’s problems won’t happen overnight.
“It’s a long road ahead, but I believe we’re heading in the right direction,” said Timmons.
Despite setbacks and shortfalls, Timmons emphasizes the importance of accountability and proactive leadership.
“Each inmate death is a tragedy. I take these incidents very seriously—more than people might think. We are making efforts to recruit quality staff, create a positive work environment, and ultimately make this facility a better place,” he added.
Leadership Under Scrutiny Since 2020 Jail Trust Takeover
When the jail trust assumed control of the facility in 2020 from the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office, expectations were high.
However, critics argue that conditions and leadership have not significantly improved under the new management.
Timmons expressed interest in eventually relocating operations to a new jail facility, supported by a $260 million bond approved by voters in 2022.
Unfortunately, funding gaps remain a major obstacle, as the bond amount is insufficient to cover all expenses.
Chairman Steven Buck Pushes for Performance Review
Jail Trust Chairman Steven Buck has not signaled any intent to dissolve the trust but stressed the need to evaluate the trust’s performance over the past five years.
“I believe we’ve reached a point where the status quo deserves examination,” Buck stated. “While I won’t speculate on the views of my fellow trustees, I expect a thorough discussion on conducting a performance review that will help us determine the best way forward.”
He further emphasized that this five-year milestone is an opportunity to ask critical questions and potentially recommend changes.
“My personal hope is that we launch a structured review process with clear timelines to ensure a detailed and transparent evaluation,” Buck said.
Uncertainty Ahead as Trust Faces Missed Meetings
The last two scheduled jail trust meetings were canceled, raising questions about the group’s direction.
However, Friday’s upcoming meeting may finally bring clarity about the future of the jail trust and its leadership structure.
The Oklahoma County Detention Center continues to grapple with systemic issues, leadership concerns, and funding challenges.
With calls for performance reviews and potential reforms, the upcoming trust meeting could be a turning point in shaping the jail’s future.
Stakeholders now await whether leadership will embrace change or maintain the current course.