OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma State Department of Health has issued an order directing Oklahoma County Jails to allow inspectors into their facilities without prior notice.
The health department filed an administrative compliance order against the jail and the trust that manages it, the Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Agency, on July 15 after the health department attempted two unannounced inspections and was denied access to the facility.
In an order filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings, the health department demanded the prison comply with its next unannounced inspection or face administrative penalties. The order, obtained by Oklahoma Voice through a public records request, required the prison to comply with its next unannounced inspection or face administrative penalties.
according to State Lawpenalties could be fines of up to $10,000.
Oklahoma County Jail Refuses to conduct surprise inspections From the Ministry of Health June 25 and July 9The Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office said in a letter that the health department does not have the authority to conduct unannounced inspections. The health department responded with a letter saying state law gives its inspectors this authority.
The decision to block the normally routine testing has raised concerns among advocates who say it’s necessary to ensure inmates receive proper care. Oklahoma County Jail has History of the problem Since it opened in 1991, it has continued to suffer from above-average mortality rates, poor facilities, overcrowding and understaffing.
The health department ordered prisons to allow inspectors to enter and inspect the premises during unannounced visits “at reasonable times.”
According to the order, Oklahoma County criminal justice officials have 15 days after receiving the order to request a hearing, meaning by the end of July.
A spokesman for the Oklahoma County Detention Center declined to comment and referred to the assistant district attorney’s earlier response letter.
The Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office declined to comment, citing attorney-client privilege.
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