State Lawmaker Says Inmate Rights Violation Allegations Could Lead To Riots In Oklahoma Prisons

A state lawmaker says that Oklahoma prisons are on the verge of riots due to conditions behind bars.

Prison officials say the lawmaker is spreading false information.

Oklahoma State Representative Justin Humphrey (R-Lane), says Oklahoma is facing a corrections disaster.

Humphrey serves on the House Criminal Justice and Corrections Committee and is sounding the alarm on what he calls gross negligence and inhumane treatment of inmates in DOC custody

The allegations stem from a lawsuit filed earlier this month by seven inmates, claiming the DOC violated their human rights, by locking inmates in shower stalls for days without proper food and water.

Corrections officials say an investigation revealed some inmates were temporarily held in the showers after refusing other housing options. 

They argue those inmates were given food, water, and restroom breaks.

Meanwhile, Humphrey announced today that he believes Oklahoma could be on the hook for millions of dollars in lawsuits from this case, and others that are expected to be brought against the DOC.

Meanwhile, a DOC spokesperson fired back calling Humphrey’s rhetoric hateful and lacking insight.