JAIL POPULATION DROPS, DIVERSION PROGRAMS EXPAND DUE TO OKLAHOMA
COUNTY JUSTICE REFORM EFFORTS
Transformative changes implemented by the Criminal Justice Advisory Council (CJAC) have led to a significant drop in the Oklahoma County jail population and the expansion of a mental health diversion program. HISTORIC MILESTONE REACHED IN JAIL POPULATION REDUCTION The first half of fiscal year 2024 (FY24) marked a significant milestone for Oklahoma County, with the jail population hitting two historic lows. The Oklahoma County Detention Center (OCDC) population has steadily declined since the onset of the pandemic, culminating in record lows by the end of last year. In December 2023, the monthly average population dropped to 1,289, marking a 27-year low. In comparison, Tulsa County’s jail population for the same date was 1,446. Throughout December, OCDC maintained an average of 1,289, while Tulsa County’s average was 1,390. Despite Oklahoma County’s population being 125,000 higher than Tulsa County’s, its jail population is no longer the highest in the state. This is particularly noteworthy given that Oklahoma County’s overall population has grown by 3.2% since 2015. The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, with local leaders, began focusing on criminal justice reform
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