PROJECT 1 

Samantha Painter

Dr. Hammett

Composition II

March 9, 2024

Proposal for Reforming Oklahoma’s Prison System

     It's common knowledge that being incarcerated shouldn't be enjoyable. But shouldn't the criminal justice system uphold the most basic human rights? Sadly, not all situations—including those in the state of Oklahoma—support this. Numerous concerning issues beset Oklahoma's prison system including extreme overcrowding and a shortage of efficient inmate rehabilitation programs. These shortcomings impair the odds of successfully reintegrating into society after release, in addition to endangering the well-being of those who are confined. In my proposal, I support extensive changes to Oklahoma's jail system that emphasize rehabilitation, lower recidivism, and advanced justice.

     Oklahoma's jail system is crammed full. “After years of a decline, the number of people locked up is on the rise. With nearly 2,300 people currently behind bars.” (Mitchell 1) As of December 31, 2020, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections reports show that 22,462 prisoners were housed in state correctional facilities. 24 state prisons, 24 private prisons, and municipal jails host these prisoners. “Oklahoma is 4th in the nation when it comes to how many of our residents are in jail, according to a new report from the Bureau of Justice Statistics. Only Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas incarcerate more people.” (Mitchell 1). Inhumane situations, such as restricted access to mental health, medical, and educational resources, are brought on by overcrowding.   Peoples mental health and wellbeing suffers when such things are lacking. I am aware that some might argue prison serves as a means of punishment, but it needs to be humane and fair. We cannot be treating prisoners like animals. We should reevaluate mandatory minimum terms, particularly for non-violent crimes, to solve this problem. Judges should have more leniency in determining the specifics of each case. Examine alternatives to jail or prison, such as community service, drug courts, and diversionary programs. These choices can resolve common issues without requiring a jailbreak.

     The key to the fight against recidivism is rehabilitation, still, Oklahoma's jail system faces several obstacles. “Oklahoma has a recidivism rate of about 21.2%, meaning its criminal justice system is not working for about one in five prisoners who go through it. According to the state’s reporting, recidivism in Oklahoma is likely closer to 23%.” (Crimson International 1) The efficient execution of rehabilitation programs is hurt by inadequate funding and the continued use of outdated regulations. “Appropriations to the Department of Corrections have fallen from $527 million in 2005 (in 2015 dollars) to $485 million this year. That’s just enough to keep decaying facilities operating at minimal staffing levels.” (Gentzler 1). Because of this, it is difficult for prisoners to reintegrate into society after they are released. The lack of funding in the criminal justice system hinders advancement. Investments in education, career training, mental health services, and drug addiction treatment are necessary for rehabilitation programs. These essential initiatives remain undeveloped in the absence of sufficient funds, leaving prisoners ill-prepared for a smooth transition. Antiquated regulations cling obstinately, hindering innovation. Tailored therapies, evidence-based methods, and flexibility are essential components of a modern rehabilitation strategy. Regrettably, bureaucratic inertia frequently wins out and hinders the use of better tactics. Reentering society unsupported by former inmates faces enormous obstacles. The cycle of crime is sustained by restricted access to social services, housing, and work opportunities. Rehabilitation is very necessary to reduce recidivism rates, which impacts not only the safety of the community but also the lives of individuals. While I acknowledge that some inmates make it more difficult for themselves to qualify for rehabilitation, this is an issue that needs to be addressed. I am also aware that lawmakers in Oklahoma just approved additional cash for inmate rehabilitation. I still believe that work needs to be done. We ought to fund educational initiatives that provide prisoners with the necessary skills. Services for job placement and vocational training can get them ready for a smooth transition back into society. We might also work together with mental health specialists to offer prisoners complete care. Resolving mental health concerns lowers the chance of recurrence

    Discrimination against people for race, religion, sex, or disability reasons, are all forbidden by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections. Racial differences have been prominent in the prison system though. “Blacks account for the majority of those minorities that are proportionally overrepresented in the criminal justice system. Black female inmates account for an even greater disproportional amount of crime than their male counterparts.”(Camp 1) The population of minorities in prison is concerningly high, Black Oklahomans make up just 8% of the state's population, but they are incarcerated at a rate of more than four times, or 19.83 per 1,000 residents, compared to white Oklahomans' rate of only 4.1 per 1000. These statistics are based on the article "Racial Disparities Are Rising in Oklahoma Prison Admissions." Some may argue that there is no racism involved, and that the higher likelihood of arrests for crimes committed by Black Americans is based on crime alone. But the math simply doesn't add up. Oklahoma's prison population consists of an 8 percent minority. It has to be more than just crime; it must be racism, which is morally incorrect and unfair to the people. The over-representation of black people in the prison system affects a multitude of things negatively. Such as families, communities, and society. It makes one doubt the fairness and efficiency of our criminal justice system and calls for a more in-depth analysis of the policies and procedures held within the prison system. “Demographic factors such as rural and urban living patterns do not explain all these differences. Therefore, the reasons for the higher incarceration rate of blacks should be analyzed.” (Camp 1)To address these disparities, we must focus on eliminating bias. The education of law enforcement should be looked at. We should train law enforcement, judges, and correctional staff to identify and fight against implicit bias. We must promote equal treatment regardless of race or ethnic origin. 

     The Oklahoma prison system is at a critical point. Where it will no longer be able to sustain its operations without meaningful improvements being made. What's the use of a prison if it doesn't help inmates get better acquainted with their mistakes? It is critical that we shift our focus toward rehabilitation, actively address and rectify racial disparities plaguing the system, and strive to uphold principles of fairness and equity. By changing these things, we hope to shape a system that not only serves the cause of justice but also ensures the safety of the public. Let us all advocate for these changes, working together towards a brighter, more promising future for our beloved state of Oklahoma. Together, through our collective efforts and unwavering commitment to progress, we can pave the way for a more just, equitable, and effective criminal justice system that truly reflects the values and aspirations of our community.