Oklahoma County Detention Center Holds Job Fair To Fill Several Positions

After an audit revealed numerous issues at the Oklahoma County Detention Center, applicants still appeared Thursday in search of a job.

Charles Branom was the first in line Thursday morning. Branom said this job would be his chance to make a difference.

“I think with them hiring more people, more staff, I think conditions will get better,” Branom said. “From whatever the situation is, I just wanted to come down and do my part.”

The job fair is addressing staffing issues detailed in an inspection report from the Oklahoma State Department of Health. 

The report also detailed other problems. Some of them were expressed by inmates on video during a hostage situation at the jail in March.

Applicants said they're not afraid to work at the jail. Paul Wiley said it takes a certain person to be up for the challenge.

“You should listen to them when they're having problems,” Wiley said. “A lot of people have a lot of mental problems. You'd be surprised by listening and sitting down with them how much it affects them.”

“Spreading the word of Jesus. I have God in my heart and in my life and I know that he watches over each and every one of us,” Branom said. “I think to get that out there is a big part.”

Among the openings applicants were able to apply for include detention officers, investigators and housing monitors. Applicants are expected to learn if they’ll be hired by April 26.