The CJAC stands on the shoulders of numerous justice champions who served and toiled on previous commissions, task forces and working groups for more than a decade. More specifically, the CJAC is a direct result of the Vera Institute’s first recommendation that Oklahoma County needed to create “oversight and accountability mechanisms for the local justice system” embodied “in a standing regional criminal justice coordinating body with sufficient staff and research capacity.” Since the majority of CJAC members are appointed or elected officials, the makeup of the 19 members fluctuates from year to year. Yet each year, CJAC’s progress continues because of the work of the members and the numerous valued partners. In FY22 one of those appointed officials retired—Larry Stevens, former Edmond city manager. Mr. Stevens began his work even before the Vera Institute report was released as he served on the original Greater OKC Chamber Criminal Justice Task Force. He played a leading role in creating the CJAC and keeping the City of Edmond involved as a critical player. Additionally, Stevens assisted the Facilities Subcommittee in the jail study that eventually resulted in the voters approving a bond package for a new jail. Stevens recently retired after 20 years as city manager. In a review of his tenure, a local Edmond publication, Edmond Life and Leisure, noted that 20 years is a remarkably long tenure in the city manager business. They went on to note Stevens’ professionalism that CJAC members and staff knew all too well: “When a hard decision has to be made, he makes it. Larry doesn’t put it on others. He takes the blame if there is any and never takes credit for himself. … Larry is a “we” person and you never hear him use the word “I” when talking about projects in Edmond that are so successful. He has the back of his employees as well. … His work can only be described as a true professional.” The CJAC and community express our deepest appreciation for Mr. Stevens’ important service. His insight and hard work are reflected in the progress being made in our county toward more fair and effective justice. JUSTICE CHAMPION: LARRY STEVENS, FORMER EDMOND CITY MANAGER
SHERIFF ROLLS OUT NEW BODY-WORN CAMERAS When the new Sheriff Tommie Johnson III was campaigning for the job, he promised to do things differently. One of those areas he wanted to change was the fact that the OK County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) was not equipped with body cameras. Sheriff Johnson made good on his pledge during FY22 by securing funding to purchase 40 Axon body cameras along with data storage and a maintenance package. The Sheriff’s office did not use any taxpayer appropriated funds. Instead OCSO utilized revenues generated through various fees like fingerprinting as well as drug seizure proceeds. Any Sheriff’s officer that has regular contact with the public will be wearing the body cams, and the system is equipped with sensors that will activate anytime a deputy turns on their emergency lights or draws their gun. Additionally, the cameras can be turned on remotely which could be critical if a deputy is on a foot chase, or has gone missing in a pursuit, investigation or when issuing a warrant. In this current era where law enforcement officers are under intense scrutiny, the Sheriff was glad to provide this extra level of transparency to the community.
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