The Okmulgee County Criminal Justice Authority (OCCJA) recently underwent a reaccreditation audit conducted by the American Correctional Association (ACA), reaffirming its commitment to excellence in correctional facility management. OCCJA remains the only detention facility (jail) in the state of Oklahoma to hold this prestigious accreditation.
Founded in 1870, the ACA is the oldest international association developed specifically for professionals in the corrections field. Its standards are considered the benchmark for correc- tional institutions nationwide and beyond.
On Sept. 17, an ACA auditing team, Fred Campbell of Arkansas and Tony D’Cunha of Texas, arrived in Okmulgee to begin a comprehensive two-day assessment of the facility. The audit encompassed 47 mandatory standards and 106 non-mandatory (but strongly recommended) standards, evaluating every aspect of the jail’s operations, from safety and sanitation to dietary requirements, staff training, inmate care, etc.
Over the course of their visit, the auditors conducted a thorough inspection of the facility, scrutinizing operations and interviewing both staff and inmates. At the conclusion of the audit, the team reported that OCCJA had achieved its highest score to date, 99%, a remarkable accomplishment that reflects the dedication and professionalism of the entire OCCJA team.
Executive Director Shannon T. Clark, who has overseen several ACA audits and accreditations throughout his career, expressed pride in the facility’s performance.
“We began preparing for this audit the day after our last one concluded, three years ago,” Clark said. “It’s our responsibility to maintain the highest standards possible, not just during audit years, but every day.”
Clark emphasized a philosophy of treating inmates with dignity and humanity, noting, “Our view is simple: inmates are human beings first.” The ACA auditors specifically commended this approach, remarking that Clark’s values were clearly reflected in the behavior and professionalism of the OCCJA staff.
The auditing team will now submit their findings to a panel of commissioners with the American Correctional Association. At a later date, select members of the OCCJA will formally defend their recommended score before the ACA Board of Commissioners during an upcoming conference in Long Beach, California.
This exceptional score highlights OCCJA’s unwavering commitment to excellence, safety, and the humane treatment of those in our care, setting a standard not only for Oklahoma but for detention facilities nationwide.
We are also proud to share that OCCJA recently underwent its annual inspection by the United States Marshals Service and received a perfect audit evaluation, further affirming the strength and integrity of our operations.
None of this would be possible without the professionalism, hard work, and unwavering dedication of our staff. Your commitment is the foundation of our continued success. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the OCCJA Board of Trustees for their steadfast support, which continues to empower us to meet challenges head-on and accomplish great things, together.
