2024 progress in criminal justice: CJAC's successful efforts to reduce jail population

The Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Advisory Council (CJAC) marked significant progress as it completed its sixth fiscal year on June 30, 2024. Overcrowding at the Oklahoma County Detention Center (OCDC) decreased, with the jail population reaching a record low yearly average of 1,385 inmates in FY24. The decline began in November 2023 when the population fell below 1,300 for the first time. By December 2023, the monthly average hit 1,289, the lowest in 27 years. Despite a 3.2% population growth in Oklahoma County since 2015, the jail population is no longer the highest in the state. 

The reduced jail population contributed to a nearly 48% drop in the number of Oklahoma County residents sentenced to prison by the Department of Corrections (DOC) since 2018. To further address overcrowding, the county expanded diversion programs, focusing on individuals with mental health and substance use disorders, and connecting them with services earlier in the criminal justice process. 

Oklahoma County also made strides toward a new jail, purchasing land at 1901 E. Grand Blvd. for a Behavioral Care Center (BCC) to address the mental and behavioral health needs of justice-involved individuals. Construction is expected to begin in FY25, though challenges related to costs and zoning remain.