Sheriff Highlights Changes to Oklahoma County Jail

By Dave Jordan, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Members of the media and at least two county commissioners spent the afternoon in the Oklahoma County jail touring the improved facility.

It was a 2008 Department of Justice report that led to the removal of 160 federal inmates from the Oklahoma County Jail. Investigators raised concern about the safety and living conditions but today, things are definitely different.

"Over the last two years we've responded to every suggestion and criticism that they had," Sheriff Whetsel said.

Sheriff John Whetsel authorized about $1 million in upgrades including a newly remodeled medical waiting area, increased camera surveillance and changing the color of the pods where inmates are housed.

Could You Have to Pay for a New Jail?

The DOJ took notice.

"The many favorable comments indicated were on the right direction with their concerns," Sheriff Whetsel said.

Jail administrators also strengthened its policy on inmate abuse after a high-profile probe into the death of Christopher Beckman. Two jailers pled guilty to violating Beckman's civil rights. District Attorney David Prater says he won't hesitate to charge others with similar violations.

"We sent a message to both the inmates that this will be a secure facility for them and to the staff that this will not be tolerated," Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater said.

But despite all these changes, it's still unclear if the feds will insist the county build a new facility all together.

"I think ultimately if we don't do something in the not-too-distant future we will be faced with more demands with the Department of Justice," Oklahoma County Commissioner Ray Vaughan said.

The Oklahoma County jail also lowered the number of inmates its houses. Two years ago it was at 2,600, now it's about 2,100.