Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt Makes Big Announcement

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt recently announced the launch of a new task force to reduce crime and enhance public safety...

Photo byGage Skidmore via Wikimedia Commons

Governor Kevin Stitt recently announced the formation of the MODERN (Modernized Operations through Data and Evidence-based Restoration Now) Justice Task Force.

According to a statement by the Governor, the task force will conduct a first-of-its-kind intensive review of Oklahoma's justice system, identifying evidence-based strategies to reduce crime and recidivism, improve public safety, and expand opportunities for everyone in Oklahoma.

“We’re taking concrete steps towards a safer, smarter, and more efficient justice system in Oklahoma,” said Governor Kevin Stitt. “With all three branches of government working together, we’re demonstrating to all four million Oklahomans the state’s commitment to strengthening public safety while ensuring our justice system works fairly and efficiently.”

“Any focus we have must keep crime victims in mind, ensure violent criminals stay behind bars while finding ways to get addicts and people who are mentally ill the help they need before breaking the law,” said Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat. “There are many avenues to explore in this space but the policy needs to be attainable, affordable, and sustainable in the long term. I look forward to seeing the Task Force’s recommendations to increase efficiency and maximize the return on taxpayers’ public safety investment.”

“After years of focusing on statewide efforts, we’ve realized the extent of the strain our jails and sheriffs are facing, and understand that reforms are needed. By investing time and energy through the Task Force process, we can be smart about local criminal justice in ways that will ensure we are being right on crime, while at the same time providing help to those who need it,” said Speaker McCall.

“Importantly, this will be a state and local led effort based on policy ideas generated by Oklahomans for Oklahomans," McCall continued. "The citizens of our state should rest assured that their safety and security is our number one priority, and this Task Force will make sure that important factor is taken into account when weighing any criminal justice reforms they may recommend.”

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