Oklahoma state strategy for the Justice Assistance Grant.

              D 1300.S SS9Sd 200S-2012
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2008 - 2012
OKLAHOMA STATE STRATEGY
For The
Justice Assistance Grant
Oklahoma District Attorneys Council
Federal Grants Division
421 N.W. 13th, Suite 290
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73 103
405/264-5008
405/264-5095 Fax
Suzanne McClain Atwood
Executive Coordinator
DeLynn Fudge
Federal Grants Division Director
2008 - 2012
OKLAHOMA STATE STRATEGY
For The
Justice Assistance Grant
Table of Contents
I. Overview. .............. 3
II. Data and Analysis........... 5
Overview of Oklahoma 5
Criminal Justice System in Oklahoma 7
Justice Assistance Grant 13
Justice Assistance Grant Board 15
Review of Data 17
III. JAG Program Priorities 40
IV. Coordination Efforts.................................................................................................... 42
Sources 44
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2008 - 2012 OKLAHOMA STATE STRATEGY
For The
Justice Assistance Grant
Overview
The State of Oklahoma, with approximately 3.5 million residents, ranks twenty-eighth in the nation in
population according to the 2005 U.S. Census, U.S. Census Bureau. As with many states, Oklahoma
spends a considerable amount of state and federal funds to respond to the on-going abuse of illegal
drugs by a small segment of its citizens.
In order to be effective, a state's response must be multifaceted and simultaneously address drug use
prevention with youth, as well as control drug-related and violent offenders. In order to assist states
with this massive responsibility, the United States Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs,
Bureau of Justice Assistance has made funding available through the Justice Assistance Grant UAG).
The purpose of the JAG Program is to provide funding to states and units of local government in
implementing specific programs that enhance and improve the efficiency of the criminal justice
system.
Since 1986, the Oklahoma District Attorneys Council (DAC) has served as the state administering
agency for the JAG Program, formerly known as the Edward Byrne Memorial Formula Grant. The
Justice Assistance Grant Board provides oversight for the JAG Program. Comprised of 17 voting and
non-voting members, the Board represents a cross section of criminal justice agencies in Oklahoma
and is charged with developing the state strategy, prioritizing purpose areas for funding, reviewing
grant proposals, and determining awards. Through the dedicated and knowledgeable representatives
that serve on the JAG Grant Board, strategies and approaches have been developed and executed to
prevent as well as control violent and drug-related crimes and serious offenders. In this capacity, the
Board through the JAG Program leverages federal funding in order to marshal the State's resources in
responding to drugs and violent crime.
In order to receive federal JAG Program funding, states must submit a State Strategy. The State
Strategy identifies drug and violent crime control programs that intend to improve the functioning of
the criminal justice system. The four-year Strategy outlines the programs to be funded with the JAG
Program and provides data and information to support the need for the programs.
In implementing the JAG Program, Oklahoma recognizes that state agencies, local governments, tribal
governments, and private, non-profit organizations must collaborate and cooperate. In Oklahoma, the
state agencies that comprise the criminal justice system are many. For example, some states have a
combined public safety and statewide investigative agency. However, in Oklahoma separate agencies
exist to carry out these functions. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the JAG Board to collaborate with
a large number of agencies within the state to achieve the mission of the JAG Program.
In order to develop a state strategy and identify priorities for funding, the Board reviewed a variety of
current, valid, and pertinent data. In addition, the Board conducted an examination of the positive
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progress occurring in various areas of the criminal justice system, completed an individual survey on
priorities for funding, and obtained input from a statewide Public Hearing.
After a careful review of the data and analysis, the JAG Board was able to make informed decisions
concerning the most effective and efficient usage of the limited resources dedicated toward reducing
drugs and violent crime in Oklahoma. For the 2008 - 2012 State Strategy, the following goals were
established:
I. Reduce the importation, manufacturing, distribution, and possession of illegal drugs and controlled
substances throughout the state;
2. Reduce the trafficking of illegal drugs and controlled substances in and through the state;
3. Reduce the violence related to gangs through prevention, enforcement, and prosecution;
4. Assist local law enforcement through the procurement of equipment;
5. Encourage innovative law enforcement projects that address drugs and violent crime control that
improves the functioning of the criminal justice system;
6. Encourage innovative prosecution projects that address drugs and violent crime control that
improves the functioning of the criminal justice system;
7. Encourage innovative prevention projects that address drugs and violent crime control that
improves the functioning of the criminal justice system;
8. Improve the integration of criminal history records between criminal justice agencies; and,
9. Reduce prison recidivism by providing effective drug and alcohol treatment for incarcerated
juvenile and/or adult offenders.
Each award year, the JAG Board will prioritize funding based on the funding level and the goals set forth
in the strategy. The purpose areas under the JAG Program are:
Purpose Ar~a
,. . .. !,. ;. ::
Law Enforcement Programs
2 Prosecution and Court Programs
3 Prevention and Education Programs
4 Corrections and Community Corrections Programs
5 Drug Treatment Programs
6 Planning, Evaluation, and Technology Improvement Programs
4
Data and Analysis
2008 - 2012 OKLAHOMA STATE STRATEGY
For The
Justice Assistance Grant
OVERVIEW OF OKLAHOMA
With approximately 3.5 million residents, Oklahoma ranks twenty-eighth (28th) in the nation in
population according to the 2005 U.S. Census, U.S. Census Bureau. Since 2000, Oklahoma
experienced a 2.8% growth rate.
Approximately 78% of the population in Oklahoma is Caucasian, 8% is American Indian, 8% is African
American, 7% is Hispanic or Latino, and 2% is Asian. The remaining 2% of the population are some
other race or a combination of one or more races.
In 2005, the median income in Oklahoma was $35,375. This is significantly less than the national
median income which is $44,389. The principal industries in the state include manufacturing, mineral,
and energy exploration, and energy production; however, Oklahoma is considered a rural state and
farming is a considerable focus of the economy. When comparing the number of persons per square
mile to that of the United States, Oklahoma has 51.7 persons per square mile versus an average of
79.6 persons per square mile for the rest of the nation.
Oklahoma has 77 counties and supports two major metropolitan areas in the state. Oklahoma City,
the capital, is located in the center of the state and has a population in excess of 1.2 million.
According to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data, the City of Tulsa, located in the northeastern
part of the state, has a population exceeding 900,000. Other principal cities include Ardmore, Enid,
Lawton, Norman, and Muskogee.
Oklahoma is the 18th largest state with a land area of 68,667 square miles. The state has over 4,400
miles of river, lake shoreline, and forests which cover approximately 24% of Oklahoma. The major
highways are Interstates 35, 40, and 44 and U.S. Highways 54, 56, 64, 69, 75, 81, 83, 287, and 412.
Interstate 35, U.S. 69/75, and U.S. 81 are the primary north-south routes and 1-40 is the main east-west
route. Interstate 44 extends from the Texas-Oklahoma border to the Oklahoma-Missouri
border. Oklahoma is bordered by Colorado and Kansas to the north, Missouri and Arkansas to the
east, New Mexico to the west, and Texas to the south and west.
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The central locality of Oklahoma in relation to the rest of the nation and the close proximity of
Oklahoma to the Mexican border, in addition to the extensive transportation infrastructure, including
the interstate highways, public and private airports, rail lines, and two river ports, increases the
transportation of illegal drugs through the state. Most drugs are transported via private and
commercial vehicles; however, with 149 public airports, private and commercial aircraft are also used
to transport drugs into the state.
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CRIMINALJUSTICE SYSTEMIN OKLAHOMA
CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
In Oklahoma, the state agencies that comprise the criminal justice system are many. Some states have
a combined public safety and statewide investigative agency; however, in Oklahoma separate agencies
exist to carry out these functions. The overall structure of the state criminal justice system in
Oklahoma tends toward many individual agencies that focus on a specific mission rather than a few
agencies with multi-faceted missions. As a result, cooperation and collaboration is an essential
component to the success of the JAG Grant. The following state criminal justice agencies serve as
collaborative partners with the District Attorneys Council and the Justice Assistance Grant Board in
implementing the Byrne Grant.
Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC)
The Administrative Office of the Courts oversees the business function of the judicial branch of
government. Such functions include services in the areas of financial accounting, payroll and benefits,
alternate dispute resolution, judicial education, public information, and the monitoring of legislative
developments affecting the court system. The AOC also administers a computer system for case
tracking, legal information, and legal research to serve the Courts, the Bar Association, and the
people of Oklahoma.
District Attorneys Council (DAC)
The mission of the District Attorneys Council is to strengthen the criminal justice system in
Oklahoma by providing a professional organization for the education, training, and coordination of
technical efforts of all state prosecutors. DAC provides administrative and support functions for the
27 District Attorney Districts through five Divisions. These Divisions include the Executive Division,
Finance Division, Information Technology Division, Victim Services Division, and the Federal Grants
Division. DAC responsibilities include:
• Presenting issues of importance of the District Attorneys system to the Governor, Legislature,
and other policy makers;
• Coordinating continuing legal education for attorneys within the District Attorney system.
• Providing legal research to District Attorneys' offices;
• Handling all aspects of payroll and insurance for employees of the District Attorney system.
• Aiding individual districts with budget and account balance information;
• Managing systems information technology services for the District Attorney system, including the
installation of a system-wide prosecutor case management system, web-site and e-mail
administration, acquisition and installation of computer equipment, and technical assistance and
support;
• Administrating all aspects of the Crime Victims Compensation Fund, the Sexual Assault
Examination Fund, the Murrah Crime Victims Compensation Fund, VOCA grants, and other
victim services;
• Serving as the state-administering agency for the Justice Assistance Grant Program, National
Criminal History Improvement Program, Violence Against Women Act Grant, Coverdell Forensic
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Sciences Improvement Grant, Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Grant, Anti-Gang Initiative
Grant and the Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant for the Eastern, Western, and Northern
Districts of the United States Attorney Offices.
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Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA)
The mission of OJA is to provide prevention education, treatment services, and secure facilities for
juveniles involved in the juvenile justice system in order to promote public safety and reduce juvenile
delinquency. OJA serves as the state planning and coordinating agency for statewide juvenile justice
and delinquency prevention services. OJA provides court intake, probation and parole services for
delinquent children, delinquency prevention programs, and the collection and dissemination of
information related to juvenile justice.
Office of the Attorney General (OAG)
The mission of the Attorney General's Office is to represent Oklahoma by serving and protecting
citizens, the government, and the law. The Office of the Attorney General represents all state boards
and agencies. The following are specialized divisions within the Attorney General's Office: Consumer
Protection, Criminal Appeals, Environmental Protection, General Counsel, Litigation, Medicaid Fraud
Control, Multi-County Grand Jury, Workers Compensation Fraud, Public Utility Regulation, and
Victim Services.
Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME)
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has the sole responsibility for investigating sudden,
unexpected, and suspicious deaths. The mission of the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is to
protect the public health and safety of Oklahomans through the scientific investigation of deaths as
defined by state statutes. This process involves scene investigation and medicolegal autopsy (including
radiology, toxicology, histology, and microbiology) complementing the activities of law enforcement
agencies, district attorneys, and public health officials.
Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control (OBNDDC)
The OBNDDC is a law enforcement agency whose goal is to minimize the abuse of controlled
substances through law enforcement measures directed primarily at drug trafficking, illicit drug
manufacturing, and major suppliers of illicit drugs. The mission of the OBNDDC is to enforce the
Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substance Act as outlined in Title 63 of the Oklahoma Statutes, to
train and assist local law enforcement agencies, and to compile drug related statistics. OBNDDC
provides a leadership role for law enforcement throughout the state for investigative efforts directed
toward the illegal use of controlled dangerous substances.
Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC)
The mission of ODOC is to protect the public, protect the employees, and protect the offenders
through the provision of professionally managed correctional services pursuant to orders of the
court, applicable statutes, and Board of Corrections policy. The department offers a range of
correctional options including institutionalization, community programs, community supervision,
treatment, and other rehabilitation programs that will best serve the needs of Oklahoma and the
individual offender to enhance the offender's ability to establish a productive and law-abiding lifestyle.
The department administers its programs in an equitable manner in the least restrictive environment,
consistent with public safety.
Oklahoma Department of Public Safety (DPS)
DPS is a multi-service safety and law enforcement organization. The mission of DPS is to promote a
safe and secure environment for the public. DPS is responsible for policing all state roads and
highways as well as lakes and river shores. Security and law enforcement activities are conducted to
protect the public. The department is responsible for licensing of motor vehicle operators and
maintaining records of license holders. Administrative activities reduce the number of unsafe or
uninsured drivers. These activities include the enforcement of Implied Consent, Bail Bonds, Points
System, Medical Aspects, and Financial Responsibility statutes. Vehicle safety and hazardous waste is
regulated by vehicle inspection, and size and weight laws. Communications and information access for
department members and law enforcement agencies statewide are achieved through the
telecommunications system maintained by the department. Several thousand apprehensions and tens
of millions of dollars in property are recovered yearly through the system. The federally mandated
Oklahoma Highway Safety Office (OHSO) promotes safety on the state's highways through
education, enforcement, and engineering projects.
Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI)
OSBI is the general investigative agency for the State of Oklahoma. OSBI provides services in support
of law enforcement throughout the state. OSBI's duties are as follows:
• Maintain scientific laboratories to assist in the discovery and detection of criminal activity.
• Maintain fingerprint and other identification files.
• Operate teletype, mobile, radio, or other communications systems.
• Conduct schools and training programs for individuals associated with any aspect of law
enforcement, investigation, and detection of crimes.
• When requested, assist law enforcement and district attorneys in solving crimes.
• Investigate and detect criminal activity as requested by the Governor.
• Maintain a Uniform Crime Reporting system, including collecting and correlating information,
compiling statistics on the volume and nature of crime and the administration of criminal justice
within Oklahoma.
LOCAL AND TRIBAL LAW ENFORCEMENT
Local law enforcement is an important partner in the JAG Program. In Oklahoma, a Sheriffs
Department is located in each of the 77 counties. In addition, there are approximately 479 local law
enforcement agencies and 21 tribal law enforcement agencies. Throughout the state, there are
approximately 13,913 full time and reserve law enforcement officers.
DRUG TASK FORCES
While every law enforcement agency addresses drugs and violent crime, the largest and most active
drug enforcement entity is the 22 drug task forces that operate throughout the state. Twenty (20) of
the multijurisdictional drug task forces are operated by District Attorneys, one is through a local
sheriffs office, and one is through a state agency. The multijurisdictional drug task forces have been
the primary priority for funding through the Justice Assistance Grant Program since inception of the
grant program.
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The multijurisdictional drug task forces integrate local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies
and prosecutors to enhance interagency coordination and collaboration, increase intelligence sharing,
and facilitate investigations of drugs and violent crimes. Each drug task force focuses on a specific
geographical district. Fifty-three (53) investigators are assigned to the drug task forces. There are an
additional 16 local law enforcement officers assigned on a full-time basis that work in tandem with the Drug
Task Forces pursuant to interagency agreements and another 40 that assist as needed.
COOPERATIVE ORGANIZATIONS AND ADDITIONAL STATE AGENCIES
There are a number of other state agencies and private, non-profit agencies, while not considered a
part of the criminal justice system, are integral components and have missions related to improving
the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.
Office of Homeland Security (OHS)
The mission of the Office of Homeland Security, within the Department of Public Safety, is to develop
and coordinate the implementation of a comprehensive statewide strategy to secure the State of
Oklahoma from the results of terrorism, from public health emergencies, cyber terrorism, from
weapons of mass destruction, and to perform other duties assigned to it by the Governor. The
responsibilities of the Office of Homeland Security include:
• Representing the State of Oklahoma with federal agencies, other states and national entities;
• Coordinating and preparing applications for federal funds related to Homeland Security;
• Developing and implementing the State Homeland Security Plan;
• Developing and implementing Homeland Security Responses;
• Coordinating Homeland Security efforts within the State of Oklahoma;
• Providing staff support to the Governor's Security and Preparedness Executive Panel, the
Homeland Security Executive Committee, and various working groups;
• Developing and implementing a Comprehensive First Responder Homeland Security Program;
• Developing a Comprehensive Training Program on Homeland Security efforts;
• Serving as a resource to local agencies in Homeland Security efforts; and,
• Serving as a resource to the public in Homeland Security efforts.
Oklahoma Criminal justice Resource Center (OCjRC)
Under the direction of the Oklahoma Sentencing Commission, a multidisciplinary group created by
the Oklahoma Legislature, the Oklahoma Criminal Justice Resource Center provides data collection
assistance, research, and interpretive analysis to the Legislature, the Oklahoma Sentencing
Commission, and other policymakers and agencies to improve the allocation of criminal justice
resources. In its work, the Center considers public safety concerns, constitutional ideals, and practical
limitations on resources. The Oklahoma Criminal Justice Resource Center seeks to systemize a
criminal justice process that is fractured by separations between levels and branches of
government. The Center helps identify problems that undermine faith in and operation of the criminal
justice system, and builds consensus on solutions. The Center serves as a link between the legislative
process and the various criminal justice entities to formulate public policy.
Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP)
The mission of the Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police is to promote excellence in law
enforcement through professional development, ethical standards, technical support, and
communication with all law enforcement administrators, management staff, and line personnel. The
OACP interacts with all levels of federal, state, municipal, campus, and tribal criminal justice agencies,
as well as advocacy groups representing all ethnicities and persons who are touched by crime and
victimization, to bring about enlistment and training of qualified persons in the police profession.
OACP makes recommendations that enhance the effectiveness of police agencies and organizations
for the mutual benefit of law enforcement, citizens, and the agencies of the state, and encourages the
adherence of all police officers to the highest professional standards of conduct.
Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
(ODMHSAS)
The mission of the ODMHSAS is to provide a statewide network of services to individuals with
mental illness, substance abuse addiction, and domestic violence and sexual assault issues. Individuals
with a mental illness are offered a continuum of programs from community-based treatment and case
management to acute inpatient care. Individuals with substance abuse addiction are offered outpatient
counseling or extended residential treatment. Individuals involved in domestic violence or who have
been sexually assaulted are offered services through community-based programs that provide safe
shelter, advocacy, counseling, and other services. In addition, support prevention programs are
offered to reduce the occurrence of substance abuse, violence, and other harmful behaviors among
young people.
Oklahoma Sheriffs Association (OSA)
The mission of the Oklahoma Sheriffs Association is to maintain the 77 Sheriffs Offices throughout
the state by offering training and education, developing laws and polices that promote public safety,
and providing technical and informational support to assist the Sheriffs of Oklahoma in providing
effective and quality law enforcement services to the citizens of the State of Oklahoma.
Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE)
The OSDE works to improve student success through service to schools, parents, and students.
They provide leadership for education reform and regulation/deregulation of state and federal laws to
help students succeed. Administrative Services carry out the administration duties of the agency and
provides support for the services of the various divisions. Accreditation/Standards Services oversees
school accreditation standards while supporting deregulation of schools. Federal Fiscal Services
directs programs which are primarily federally funded and serves specialized needs of local school
districts. Financial Services distributes state funds to local school districts, in addition to collecting
data regarding student attendance, valuations, budgets, and student transfers. Professional Services
coordinates the certification and continuing education of professional educators. School Improvement
Services implements the mandated core curriculum through workshops on grant and program
management, curriculum development and implementation, instruction, remediation and assessment .
plans.
Title IV federal monies for Safe and Drug-Free Schools are disseminated to each school district in
Oklahoma for substance abuse prevention and violence prevention education programs. Technical
assistance, professional staff development, promotion of research-based prevention programs,
evaluation methods, and needs assessment information is provided. Staff development, innovative
/I
programs, and prevention services to schools are also coordinated with federal program funding.
Data is collected annually from each school district on the progress of implementation of the No
Child Left Behind legislative requirements.
Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH)
The OSDH is responsible for protecting and improving the public's health status through strategies
that focus on preventing disease. There are currently 69 county health departments throughout the
state. The county health departments receive technical support and administrative guidance through
the following service branches of OSDH:
• Community Health Services
• Family Health Services
• Disease & Prevention Services
• Protective Health Services
Community Health Services coordinate the service delivery system of counties served by county
health departments. Family Health Services protect and promote the health of Oklahoma women,
children, and families by assessing health status, establishing evidence-based priorities, and providing
leadership to assure the availability of individual, family, and population based services. Disease and
Prevention Services monitors the distribution of, and provides services related to the control of
infectious diseases, chronic diseases, cancer, and injuries. Protective Health Services provide
regulatory oversight of the state's health care delivery service through a system of inspection,
licensure, and/or certification.
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JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM
The purpose of the Justice Assistance Grant Program, administered by the Bureau of Justice
Assistance (BJA), is to provide funding to states and units of local government in implementing
specific programs that prevent and control crime and improve the criminal justice system.
Grant funds may support programs under six (6) legislatively authorized purpose areas, pursuant to
the establishment of a state's criminal justice strategy.
The purpose areas of the Justice Assistance Grant Program define the nature and scope of the
programs and projects that might be funded under it. The purpose areas include:
I. Law Enforcement Programs
2. Prosecution and Court Programs
3. Prevention and Education Programs
4. Corrections and Community Corrections Programs
5. Drug Treatment Programs
6. Planning, Evaluation, and Technology Improvement Programs
Fiscal Year 2008 will mark the twenty-second year of federal funding for the Byrne/JAG Program. The
Oklahoma District Attorneys Council (DAC) has served as the state-administering agency since the
first Byrne Grant was awarded in 1986. Designated by the Governor, the Federal Grants Division
within the DAC serves as the point of contact for the State of Oklahoma to the Bureau of Justice
Assistance (BJA) in administering the grant program.
The responsibilities of the Federal Grants Division include:
• Preparing the application for the federal grant funds;
• Providing staff support to the Justice Assistance Grant Board;
• Developing and distributing the grant application notice and the grant applications;
• Reviewing and making recommendations to the Board regarding the funding for submitted
grant applications;
• Receiving funds from BJA and disbursing the funds to the subgrantees throughout the grant
cycle;
• Evaluating and monitoring compliance of subgrantees in meeting fiscal and programmatic
requirements;
• Providing guidance and technical assistance to subgrantees;
• Collecting statistical data from' the subgrantees to assess program effectiveness and provide
information to BJA; and,
• Preparing and submitting the required progress, financial, and evaluation reports to BJA.
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The funding that the State of Oklahoma receives through the Justice Assistance Grant Program has
fluctuated significantly due to cuts in federal funding. In 2005, the Justice Assistance Grant replaced
two federal grant programs, the Edward Byrne Memorial Formula Grant Program and the Local Law
Enforcement Block Grant. The Justice Assistance Grant was meant to streamline justice funding and
grant administration; however, the funding was concurrently decreased. The chart below identifies
the funding comparison since 200 I with the Byrne/LLE grants in comparison to the JAG Program
beginning in 2005.
Byrne/LLE and JAG Funding in Oklahoma
2001 - 2007
$8,000,000
$7,000,000
$6,000,000
$5,000,000
$4,000,000
$3,000,000
$2,000,000
$1,000,000
$0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
$0 $0 $0 $0 $4,505,295 $2,790,472 $4,191,238
$6,375,369 $6,301,473 $6,245,952 $6,084,759 $0 $0 0
$651,672 $653,051 $690,414 $436,534 $0 $0 0
OByrne
o LLE
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JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT BOARD
Comprised of 17 voting and non-voting members, the Justice Assistance Grant Board represents a
cross section of criminal justice agencies in Oklahoma. The Board is charged with developing the
state strategy, prioritizing purpose areas for funding, reviewing grant proposals, and determining
awards for the JAG Program.
Through the dedicated and knowledgeable representatives that serve on the Justice Assistance Grant
Board, strategies and approaches have been developed and executed to prevent as well as control
violent and drug-related crimes and serious offenders. In this capacity, the Board through the JAG
Program leverages federal funding in order to marshal the State's resources in responding to drugs
and violent crime.
The members and attending designees of the Justice Assistance Grant Board are:
Voting Members
DeWade Langley, Director
Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation
Tom Jordan, Designee, Chairperson
Mark Gibson, Vice-Chair
District Attorney - District 8
Will Clark, Designee
Terri White, Commissioner
Oklahoma Department of Mental Health
David Wright, Designee
Gene Christian, Executive Director
Office of Juvenile Affairs
Gary Bolin, Designee
Drew Edmondson, Attorney General
Office of the Attorney General
Joel-Lyn McCormick, Designee
Sandy Garrett, Superintendent
Department of Education
Gayle Jones, Designee
Justin Jones, Director
Department of Corrections
Bill McCollum, Designee
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Suzanne McClain Atwood, Executive Coordinator
District Attorneys Council
Trent Baggett, Designee
Fred Savage, Chief
EI Reno Police Department
Ken Brown, Designee
Kevin Ward, Commissioner
Department of Public Safety
Darrell Weaver, Director
Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control
Chris Smith, Designee
Sheriff John Whetsel
Oklahoma County Sheriff's Department
John Waldenville, Designee
Non-Voting Members
The Honorable David O'Meilia
U.S. Attorney for the Northern District
Allen J. Litchfield, Designee
The Honorable Sheldon Sperling
U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District
Rob Wallace, Designee
The Honorable John Richter
U.S. Attorney for the Western District
Dave Walling, Designee
Agent Jim Akagi, Assistant Special Agent in Charge
Drug Enforcement Administration
Mike Roman, Designee
The Justice Assistance Grant Board meets quarterly throughout the year to provide oversight to the
JAG Program. The Board has established two subcommittees to review the grant proposals. These
include the Enforcement Committee and the Innovative Committee. The Enforcement Committee
reviews grant proposals relating to enforcement, adjudication, or training of law enforcement. The
Innovative Committee reviews grant proposals relating to prevention, treatment, and innovative
responses to enforcement, prosecution, and adjudication of drug offenses and other serious crimes.
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REVIEW OF DATA
Overview
In developing the Four-Year State Strategy for the Justice Assistance Grant Program, a thorough
review was conducted. Data was collected from a variety of reliable sources on drug usage in
Oklahoma, the availability and cost of the primary drugs of choice in the state, and the sources of
supply. Information was also gathered on treatment admissions and deaths resulting from drug use.
Data on trends in juvenile crime, arrests, trends in prison population, and gang related crimes was
compiled. By obtaining this information, the priority areas for funding through the JAG Program can
be identified.
Drug Use in Oklahoma
While all types of illegal drugs are available and abused in Oklahoma, certain drugs, such as
methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana are a more predominant problem. General drug usage in
Oklahoma has been documented through a number of sources including a 2005 National Household
Survey on Drug Abuse (NHSDA) that identified about 8% of Oklahoma residents aged 12 years and
older abused an illicit drug at least once a month prior to the survey.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDq collects information on health-risk
behaviors contributing to the leading causes of death, illness, disability, and social problems among
youth and adults in the United States. One of the mechanisms for the collection of this data is
through the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), a self-reported surveillance method. In 2005, a total
of 1,715 students in 9th through 12th grade participated in the survey. The results of the 2005 YRBS
were sufficient to permit the results to be generalized to the entire Oklahoma public high school
population.
The following results highlight the prevalence of risk behaviors related to alcohol and drug use
reported by Oklahoma high school students:
> Almost half of all students (40.5%) drank alcohol during the 30 days preceding the survey.
>- Nearly one-third of all students (26.6%) drank five or more drinks within a two-hour period at
least once during the 30 days preceding the survey.
>- Nineteen percent (19%) of all students reported using marijuana during the 30 days preceding
the survey.
>- More than half of I Ith and 12th grade male students have tried marijuana.
>- Six percent (6%) of male students in I Ith grade have used methamphetamines.
>- Almost nine percent (9%) of high school students reported using cocaine, including powder,
crack, or freebase.
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>' About ten percent (10%) of male students in I Ith grade have used cocaine.
>' Almost nineteen percent (19%) of students have been offered, sold, or given illegal drugs on
school property during the past 12 months.
In a recently released national report from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP),
teens that use drugs are more likely to engage in violent and delinquent behavior and join gangs. Early
use of marijuana, the most commonly used drug among teens, is a warning sign for later gang
involvement. The report indicates that teens that use drugs are twice as likely to use other illicit
drugs and alcohol, engage in violent behavior, and steal than are non-users. According to ONDCP
Director John Walters, "Today's research shows what many families and communities have had to
learn through painful experience: Drug use by teenagers isn't a "lifestyle choice" or an act of
"personnel expression;" it is a public health, and increasingly, a public safety dilemma.
Although overall teen drug use has declined by 23% in the last five years and youth marijuana use is
down by 25% over the same time period, more teens use marijuana than any other illicit drug.
Research shows that other than alcohol, marijuana is the most widely used substance in gang life, and
children who use marijuana are nearly four times more likely to join gangs.
The report also showed:
>' One in four teens, or 27%, who used illicit drugs in the past year report attacking others with
the intent to harm;
>' Nearly one in six teens, or 17%) who got into serious fights at school or work in the past year
report using drugs;
>' Teens who use marijuana regularly are nine times more likely than teens who done to
experience with other illicit drugs or alcohol, and five times more likely to steal; and,
>' Teens who do abstain from drug use, particularly marijuana use, function better than users
during the transition to young adulthood.
Marijuana I
According to the 2007 Oklahoma Drug Threat Assessment Survey, marijuana is the most available
drug. Marijuana has historically been a locally grown crop in Oklahoma. However, beginning in the
late 1980's, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drug Control (OBNDDC) began the
Marijuana Eradication Team which continues today. The project involves OBNDDC agents, along
with DEA, the Forest Service, the National Guard, local law enforcement, among others, to eradicate
the cultivated crops in the state. The program involves teams of officers who rappel into marijuana
fields, seize the plants, make arrests, and conduct the necessary investigations on the growers.
OBNDDC also focuses on wild-growing marijuana by using backpack herbicide spray tanks. Since this
effort began, it has tremendously decreased the production of local producers of marijuana.
1 The information on the availability of drugs in Oklahoma was obtained to compile the 2007 Oklahoma Drug Threat
Assessment for the North Texas HIDTA. The Oklahoma HIDTA is under the umbrella of the North Texas HIDTA. In
order to obtain a comprehensive picture, a survey was sent to 503 law enforcement entities throughout Oklahoma. The
responses represented local, county, state, and federal jurisdictions. Information was also obtained from the Oklahoma
Highway Patrol, the Oklahoma Medical Examiners office, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Oklahoma State Bureau
of Investigation, the Oklahoma Drug Court system, the Central Oklahoma Metro Interdiction Team, NClC, and the EI
Paso Intelligence Center.
18
Unfortunately, the importation of marijuana from Mexico by Mexican drug trafficking organizations
and cartels in combination with a number of other illegal drugs has replaced the supply from local
distributors. Because of the state's central location to other major metropolitan cities in all
directions, Oklahoma is often a transshipment point. Other criminal groups are also involved in the
retail distribution of marijuana, such as gangs, criminal groups, motorcycle gangs, and independent
dealers.
At one time, the shipment of marijuana into the state occurred most frequently in private vehicles.
While this still occurs, large shipments of marijuana and other drugs are often transported in tractor
trailer trucks. These vehicles have the ability to move greater quantities of drugs than can be shipped
in private vehicles.
During the 2006 JAG award period, the drug task forces arrested 528 individuals for possession of
marijuana, 168 for possession with intent to distribute, 20 for trafficking, 73 for distribution, 8 for
conspiracy, and 48 for cultivation for a total of 845 marijuana-related arrests. In addition to these
arrests, the drug task forces seized 1,945 pounds of marijuana.
Other efforts to combat these transshipment issues include interdiction efforts by the Oklahoma
Highway Patrol, the OBNDDC, and the Central Oklahoma Metro Interdiction Team (COMIT). These
efforts have also resulted in a significant number of drug trafficking related arrests.
The U.S. Department of Justice's Notional Illicit Drug Prices Report December 2006 lists commercial
marijuana selling for approximately $75 to $90 per ounce or $500 to $800 per pound throughout the
state.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) through the Treatment
Episode Data Set (TEDS) found that the admissions to publicly funded treatment units for marijuana
have remained fairly stable from 200 I to 2005. In 2005, the number of admissions for marijuana was
at a six-year low of 2,755 admissions, a 6% reduction from 2004.
Milrijuana Percentage 'of Increase
Year Admissions or Decrease
2001 2,832 ---
2002 3,005 6.1%
2003 2,878 -4.2%
2004 2,931 1.8%
2005 2,755 -6.0%
Methamphetamine
According to the 2007 Statewide Drug Threat Assessment, methamphetamine is the second most
available drug in Oklahoma. While the threat of methamphetamine has changed significantly since
2004, it appears from the survey results that meth continues to be a considerable problem due
primarily to the increased production and distribution by Mexican drug trafficking organizations.
From 1994 to 2002, the number of meth labs increased from 10 to over 1,254 in Oklahoma, a 124.4%
increase. At epidemic levels, law enforcement realized that something had to be done to change the
tide. A two-day interim study in the House of Representatives was held in which law enforcement,
19
prosecutors, and mental health professionals came together to address the meth lab problem in the
state and identify serious solutions to what had become an out of control problem in Oklahoma.
House Bill 2176 unanimously passed both the Oklahoma House and Senate and was signed into law
by Governor Brad Henry in April 2004.
The bill is also known as the "Nik Green, Rocky Eales, and Matthew Evans Act", named after three
Oklahoma Highway Patrol Troopers killed in the line of duty in meth related cases. The bill placed
pseudoephedrine tablets as a Schedule V controlled substance requiring photo identification and
signature prior to sale at a licensed Oklahoma pharmacy. Gel caps, liquid caps, and liquid preparations
are exempt from this law. The law requires that pharmacies ensure clients may not exceed the limit
of 9 grams in a 30-day period without a prescription.
Following the passage of the legislation, there was a significant drop in the number of meth labs
seized. Prior to the passage of the bill, there were 812 labs seized. However, from April to December
2004, there were only 465 meth labs seized. In 2005, the number of meth labs seized decreased to
334 labs. A further decrease was realized in 2006 with only 174 meth labs seized. The OBNDDC
reports that the majority of the labs seized between 2004 and 2006 were either dumpsites or
glassware only, not operational labs.
With Oklahoma's success, 44 states have restricted the sales of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine
products to varying degrees. In 2005, federal legislation also restricted retail precursor chemical sales.
Retail sales restrictions have limited the amount of the precursor chemicals to very small scale users,
resulting in a sharp decrease in the prevalence of small methamphetamine labs nationally.
Methamphetamine Labs Seized in Oklahoma
1994 - 2006
1500
1000
500
o
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006
With the significant decrease in the number of seized meth labs, one drug task force investigator
remarked that while the decrease is positive, one evil has been replaced by another, referring to the
importation of meth. Once dominated by motorcycle gangs, other criminal organizations are now the
primary wholesalers of meth and other drugs. Approximately 20 Mexican drug trafficking
organizations have been identified by the DEA as operating in the Midwest.
20
According to the OBN, Mexican drug trafficking organizations and Mexican criminal groups use
Oklahoma's transportation infrastructure to transport methamphetamine, powdered cocaine,
marijuana, and heroin. The close proximity of Oklahoma to the Mexican border as well as the
centrality of Oklahoma to the rest of the United States significantly contributes to the highway
transportation of drugs into and through the state. Other criminal groups, such as street gangs,
independent dealers, and outlaw motorcycle gangs also distribute illicit drugs in Oklahoma. However,
these groups are not operating at the sophisticated level of Mexican trafficking organizations.
A trend that is emerging with the importation of meth from Mexico is Ice. Ice is meth which has been
transformed into a more pure form. It is colorless and odorless and is reported to be the product of
choice among users due to the purity and the quality. Like crack cocaine, Ice is smoked to produce a
euphoric high. In comparison, a puff of crack cocaine impacts its user for approximately 20 minutes,
but the high from smoking Ice lasts for 12 to 24 hours. Because it is odorless, it can be smoked in
public virtually without detection. In a solid form, the drug resembles rock candy or a chip of ice.
When lighted in a glass pipe, the crystals turn to liquid and produce a potent vapor that directly
enters the bloodstream through the lungs. Ice reverts to a solid state when cooled, making it reusable
and highly transportable.
The cost of Mexican imported Ice, according to the U.S. Department of justice's Notional Illicit Drug
Prices December 2006, is $85 to $120 a gram, $750 to $1,200 an ounce, and $9,000 to $20,000 a
kilogram.
During the 2006 JAG award period, the drug task forces arrested 515 individuals for possession of
methamphetamine, 280 for possession with intent to distribute, 84 for trafficking, 225 for
distribution, 93 for manufacturing, 58 for conspiracy, and 71 for attempting to manufacture
methamphetamine, for 1,326 arrests. In addition to these arrests, the drug task forces seized 88
pounds of methamphetamine.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) reported that in 1993
Oklahoma had 92 methamphetamine addiction admissions to publicly-funded treatment units.
Interestingly in 2005, the number of admissions for meth addiction was 4,055. With the number of
seized meth labs decreasing one might expect the number of admissions to also decrease due to the
lack of availability. However, there has been a steady increase in the number of admissions for
methamphetamine addiction. The supply for these addicts is likely the Ice that is being imported into
the state. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that smoking meth or Ice may result
in more rapid addiction than snorting or injection because smoking causes a nearly instantaneous,
intense, and longer lasting high.
Methamphetamine Percentage of Increase
Year Admissions or Decrease
2001 3,231 ---
2002 3,442 6.5%
2003 3,445 0
2004 3,876 12.5%
2005 4,055 4.6%
21
22
In 2006, the Oklahoma Medical Examiner's Office identified 41 deaths in Oklahoma in which
methamphetamine was a contributing factor but not necessarily the primary cause of death. This is a
42% decrease from 70 deaths in 2005 and a 51% decrease from 84 deaths in 2004. In 2005,
methamphetamine deaths were the third largest category of drug deaths behind methadone and
hydrocodone. Methamphetamine deaths represented 14% of the total deaths in Oklahoma and 15%
of the total drug-related deaths.
According to researchers, the need for methamphetamine addiction treatment is critical. Generally,
the treatment for meth addiction is not different from that provided to other stimulant addicted
individuals; however, the treatment needs to be longer than is typical. Research indicates that the
long-term impact of meth on brain function and behavior suggests that longer treatment may be
necessary.
According to the EI Paso Intelligence Center, one child in Oklahoma was killed at a
methamphetamine lab during 2005. Another 48 children were affected by meth labs in some way.
Diverted Pharmaceuticals
According to the 2007 Drug Threat Assessment, another trend is diverted pharmaceutical drugs.
Diverted pharmaceuticals are reported as the third most prevalent problem in the state. Although
pharmaceutical diversion has not received as much attention and publicity as the abuse of other
drugs, it is a substantial and growing problem. The most common methods of diversion of
pharmaceutical controlled substances is the illegal and indiscriminate prescribing of controlled
substances, "doctor shopping" by offenders who obtain prescriptions for the same pharmaceuticals
from several physicians, forged prescriptions, pharmacy theft, and obtaining controlled substances for
personal use by health care professionals by way of fraud.
The most commonly diverted pharmaceuticals in Oklahoma are oxycodone, commonly prescribed as
OxyContin, Percodan, Percocet, Alprazolam (commonly prescribed as Xanax), Tylox, and
hydrocodone, (commonly prescribed as Lortab, Loricet, and Vicodin).
The Oklahoma Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) was enacted into law and was designed to
deter the abuse of prescription drugs. The statute requires all dispensers of Schedule II, III, IV, and V
controlled substances to submit prescription information to the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and
Dangerous Drugs Control (OBNDDC) within 30 days of the time that the controlled substance is
dispensed. In the 1990's OBNDDC was the first in the nation to electronically track Schedule II
prescription drugs through the OSTAR Program, Oklahoma Schedule II Abuse Reduction Program.
OBNDDC has redesigned the OSTAR Program to increase functionality and provide limited secure
access to authorized law enforcement regulatory and licensing agencies, pharmacies, and practitioners
throughout the state. The new system will provide continuity between practitioners, pharmacies, and
state law enforcement to help prevent prescription fraud in Oklahoma.
However, even with these advances the problem still persists. During the 2006 JAG award period,
the drug task forces seized 19,068 dosage unites of diverted prescription drugs. The 2007 Drug
Threat Assessment indicated that in the last half of 2006, there were prescriptions issued for
48,766,554 dosages of hydrocodone, 16,053,602 doses of Xanax, 6,788,499 doses of soma, and
4,661,982 doses of methadone. These numbers reflect appropriately prescribed dosages as well as
those that are diverted for illegal purposes. However, with more than 76 million dosages, every man,
woman, and child in Oklahoma would receive nearly 22 dosages each!
In 2006, there were 545 drug-related deaths. Of these, 99 were from hydrocodone, 130 from
Alprazolam, and 143 from methadone according to the Medical Examiner's records.
Crack and Powder Cocaine
Crack and powder cocaine rank as fourth and fifth, respectively, in availability in the state. Cocaine is
a powerful stimulant acting directly on the limbic system, the brain's pleasure center. Cocaine creates
a short-lived, but intense, state of euphoria and hyperactivity. Crack cocaine is a highly addictive
crystalline powder produced from cocaine.
Cocaine and crack cocaine is generally not produced in the state but is by primarily transported by
Mexican drug trafficking organizations. However, independent dealers, as well as African American
and Hispanic Street gangs, are also involved in the distribution of cocaine. Generally, cocaine is
shipped into or through the state via private and rental vehicles.
After the powdered cocaine is transported, it can be changed to crack cocaine through a conversion
process. This conversion process converts the cocaine back to a relatively pure base state so it can
be suitable for smoking. This method of preparation does not involve the use of heated volatile
substances and consequently eliminates the dangers of fire and explosion that can occur in
conventional freebasing. After conversion, the product is sold in ready-to-smoke powder. According
to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the euphoric effect produced by smoking crack cocaine is
far more intense than if ingested through snorting, and is at least equal to, if not greater than, the
effect obtained through injection.
As with all other drugs the cost of powder and crack cocaine will differ depending on a number of
variables. According to a U.S. Department of Justice Report, National Illicit Drug Prices December 2006,
the price of powder cocaine in the Oklahoma metropolitan areas averages approximately $80 to
$100 for a gram, $650 to $1,200 for an ounce, and $18,000 to $22,000 per kilogram. For crack
cocaine, the average price for a "rock" is approximately $5 to $50. An ounce of crack cocaine will
generally cost between $600 and $1000.
In 2005, the OBNDDC, OHP, and COMIT interdiction units seized 625 pounds of cocaine and 1,006
pounds of cocaine, much of which was destined for another state. During the 2006 JAG award
period, the drug task forces arrested 148 individuals for possession of cocaine or crack cocaine, 39
for possession with intent to distribution, 99 for trafficking, 75 for distribution, and 23 for conspiracy
for a total of 384 cocaine/crack cocaine-related arrests. In addition to these arrests, the drug task
forces seized 2,308 pounds of cocaine and/or crack cocaine.
From 2000 to 2004, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA)
through the Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS), determined that the admission to publicly funded
treatment units for cocaine addiction was increasing. In 2005, the number decreased to just over
2,000 admissions which reflected a 4% reduction.
23
24
X}, iCocaine ")Percentageof Increase
Year Admissions " or Decrease
2000 1,345 ---
2001 1,654 18.7%
2002 1,751 5.5%
2003 1,711 -2.3%
2004 2,146 20.3%
2005 2,057 -4.3%
In Oklahoma City, the number of deaths where cocaine was a contributing factor in 2006 was 52
according to the Oklahoma State Medical Examiner's Office. This number is 40.5% higher than the
record of 37 cocaine-related deaths in 1996.
OTHER DRUGS
Other dangerous drugs ranked sixth in the 2007 Drug Threat Assessment. These drugs may include
MDMA, LSD, PCP, and GHB. While less available than diverted pharmaceutical and other illegal
drugs, the attraction of these drugs to adolescents elevates the concern associated with them.
MDMA is one of the most popular recreational synthetic psychoactive drugs, most commonly known
as ecstasy or X. It has gained popularity over the past 20 years because of its ability to produce
strong feelings of comfort, empathy, and connection to others. It most frequently comes in tablet
form, although it is occasionally sold in capsules or as powder. MDMA use is closely tied to
underground raves and dance parties. Ecstasy pills are notoriously unreliable in content, much more
so than most other street drugs, and are often mixed with a wide variety of adulterants that can
cause a variety of negative side effects both unpleasant and dangerous. MDMA has the potential to be
psychologically addicting. Individuals who use it regularly may find they have an increased desire to
continue using it. There is a short period of tolerance after MDMA use. Using MDMA two days in a
row is likely to lead to a greatly diminished experience the second day. Some users report noticing
reduced effects for up to 2 or 3 weeks after initial use.
During the 2006 JAG award period, the drug task forces arrested 10 individuals for possession of club
drugs, 2 for possession with intent to distribute, 4 for trafficking, and 4 for distribution. In addition to
these arrests, 263 dosage units of ecstasy were seized and 5 grams of PCP. Traditionally, these type
of drugs are less of a focus for drug task forces than other types of illegal drugs so the numbers are
quite small. OBNDDC interdiction agents seized a bulk shipment of 139 pounds of MDMA on 1-40
which was believed to be destined for the east cost.
The cost of MDMA, according to the U.S. Department of Justice's National Illicit Drug Prices December
2006, is $7-8 a tablet for wholesale, $8-$12.50 a tablet for midlevel, and $15 to $25 a tablet for retail.
HEROIN
Heroin is the last on the list of availability of the eight drug types, according to the 2007 Drug Threat
Assessment. The users of heroin have typically been a small underground set of users and have been
less of a threat because they are low profile and are not as problematic to law enforcement as other
drug users. Mexican drug trafficking organizations are primarily responsible for the heroin distribution
in Oklahoma. Mexican tar heroin got its name from the black tar-like appearance. Heroin consists of
the leaves, stalk, and other products contained in the opium poppy. Because heroin must be broken
down from its pure state, it is not uncommon to find such things as baking soda, laundry starch, drain
cleaner, and powdered rat poison mixed in.
The price of heroin is considerably lower now than in the past. Many cocaine users are switching to
heroin because of the lower cost, reports the OBNDDC. Some addicts take cocaine and heroin
together. This has resulted in many deaths, including actors John Belushi and River Phoenix. Heroin
doesn't have the same stereotype associated with it as it used to. It is now seen as a "chic" drug. The
purity of the drug is so high that it can now be snorted and needles are no longer required. It can
also be injected or smoked.
According to a U.S. Department of Justice Report, Notional Illicit Drug Prices December 2006, the price
of Mexican black tar heroin in the Oklahoma metropolitan areas averages approximately $900 to
$2,500 an ounce or $45,000 a kilogram.
From 2000 to 2005, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA)
through the Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS), stated that the admission to publicly funded
treatment units for heroin addiction has continually fluctuated. In 2005, the number decreased to 93,
the lowest number in five years.
"Heroine
Year Admissio
2000 139
2001 182
2005 93
30.9%
2003 154 14.9%
2002 134 -35.8%
2004 135 -12.3%
-31.1 %
Drug Overdose Deaths in Oklahoma
According to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, there were 545 drug-related deaths in
Oklahoma in 2006. A death may involve more than one drug so the drugs related to these deaths is
more than the total number of deaths. Of the deaths, 41 involved methamphetamine, 52 deaths were
cocaine related, 77 involved oxycodone, 99 involved Hydrocodone, 130 involved Xanax, and 143
deaths involved methadone.
25
DRUG-RELATED DEATHS IN OKLAHOMA
2006
160
140 V
120
100 V
80 V
60 V :<'~'\ ~q,'-'
c-•.1..f
~l<' +'tf<::-U ~'lJV I
r-------------------------------------o~~rO----~f:~--~~r-
,)..~?§ t
The data indicates there has been a steady increase in the number drug overdose deaths involving
oxycodone. In 2000, there were 18 oxycodone related overdose deaths. In 2004, there were 33, 58
in 2005, and 81 in 2006.
Drug Arrests in Oklahoma
Over the last four years, the number of drug abuse arrests in Oklahoma has remained relatively
stable, fluctuating between 22,000 and 23,000 arrests statewide.
40/('
20/
o / ',j:"i·&1iJ,,~t . '''1;/1</, i!;,
In 2005, there were 22,398 arrests in Oklahoma for drug abuse violations, Of that number 7.4% were
persons under the age of 18. Possession of marijuana constituted 47.8% of the total number of
arrests, while sale of marijuana accounted for 5.4% of arrests. The possession of opium, cocaine, and
derivatives comprised 14.6% of the total drug abuse arrests. The sale of opium, cocaine, and
derivatives equaled 2.3% of the total number of drug abuse arrests.
Drug Abuse Arrests in Oklahoma
2002 - 2005
,------- -, 23,046
22714 I
22,398 1
:·a- .,::" I
22,500 j
I
22,000 I
21,500
2002 2003 2004 2005
26
Gang Activity in Oklahoma
According to O.s. Title 21, Section 856(F) a criminal street gang is defined as "Any ongoing
organization, association, or group of five or more persons that specifically either promotes,
sponsors, or assists in, or participates in, and requires as a condition of membership or continued
membership, the commission of one or more of the following criminal acts:
I. Assault, battery, or assault and battery with a deadly weapon, as defined in Section 645 of
this title;
2. Aggravated assault and battery as defined by Section 646 of this title;
3. Robbery by force or fear, as defined in Sections 791 through 797 of this title;
4. Robbery or attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon or imitation firearm, as defined
by Section 80 I of this title;
5. Unlawful homicide or manslaughter, as defined in Sections 691 through 722 of this title;
6. The sale, possession for sale, transportation, manufacture, offer for sale, or offer to
manufacture controlled dangerous substances, as defined in Section 2 - 101 et seq. of Title
63 of the Oklahoma Statutes;
7. Trafficking in illegal drugs, as provided for in the Trafficking in Illegal Drugs Act, Section 2-
414 of Title 63 of the Oklahoma Statutes;
8. Arson, as defined in Sections 140 I through 1403 of this title;
9. The influence or intimidation of witnesses and jurors, as defined in Sections 388, 455 and
545 of this title;
10. Theft of any vehicle, as described in Section 1720 of this title;
I I. Rape, as defined in Section I I I I of this title;
12. Extortion, as defined in Section 1481 of this title;
13. Transporting a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle, in violation of Section 1289.13 of this
title;
14. Transporting a weapon in, or discharging a weapon from, a boat, in violation of Section
1289.14 of this title; Possession of a concealed weapon, as defined by Section 1289.8 of
this title; or
15. Shooting or discharging a firearm, as defined by Section 652 of this title."
Until the fall of 2006, Oklahoma law enforcement officials did not fully comprehend the nature or
degr-ee of gang-related criminal activity occurring within Oklahoma borders. Agencies may have been
aware of activity within its jurisdiction, but the state had not pooled that knowledge in an effort to
determine the true magnitude and nature of gang sets and gang-related criminal activity occurring
within Oklahoma borders.
In an attempt to obtain this knowledge, the Oklahoma District Attorneys Council combined forces
with the three U.S. Attorneys to create Oklahoma's first comprehensive gang survey. Once created,
the Oklahoma District Attorneys Council mailed the "Oklahoma Gang Survey," to every major law
enforcement agency in Oklahoma during the fall of 2006. Officers who did not respond received a
second, follow-up mailer and were urged to complete the survey at various summit meetings,
seminars and conferences. Six hundred and thirty-five surveys (635) were distributed and 345 gang
surveys were returned which represents an overall officer response rate of 54.3%.
27
28
A snapshot of law enforcements' perception of gang-related criminal activity in Oklahoma was
compiled through the data that was collected.' Gangs are dynamic and rapidly change in magnitude
and complexion. The 2007 Oklahoma Gang Survey Assessment Report reveals that major
metropolitan gangs are migrating to rural communities at an alarming rate, and gang members from
other states are relocating to all Oklahoma communities on a daily basis. It is imperative to
understand that any extensive suppression efforts to reduce gang-related criminal activity often
results in displacement of gang-related criminal activity to adjacent, rural jurisdictions that are less
equipped to handle wide scale gang-related criminal activity. Any major gang suppression efforts must
be well coordinated where local, state, and federal law enforcement collaborate on the investigation,
apprehension and prosecution of Oklahoma gang members.
The 2006 Oklahoma Gang Survey indicates 1,006 gang sets with an estimated strength of 13,477 gang
members operating within Oklahoma borders. A gang set is an autonomous subgroup that mayor
may not be affiliated with a larger, national or international gang. However, affiliation with a larger
gang is unknown in most cases. These smaller subgroups, or cells, are most often referred to as sets.
In Hispanic gangs, the subgroups are often called "cliques." Often, these sets or cliques will reflect
the street name (such as 107 Hoovers) or the barrio (neighborhood) in their name (i.e., Compton
Crips). Active gang sets and associated criminal activity were reported in urban, suburban and rural
areas stretching across the entire state.
As alarming as 1,006 gang sets and 13,477 Oklahoma gang members might sound, these numbers are
conservative in that every effort was made to identity and eliminate any duplicate counts created by
law enforcement agencies operating within the same county and any duplicate counts created by gang
sets operating in multiple counties. In addition, the estimates provided by Oklahoma law enforcement
agencies are most likely underreported due to the fact that 91% of responding officers had never
received any formal or informal training on identification, apprehension or prosecution of gang
members. In rural areas, this number skyrockets to 98% for officers who have never received any
training on gang-related activity.
Similarly, 94% of responding agencies do not have gang units or designated individuals responsible for
tracking gang-related activity within their jurisdiction. In rural areas, this number jumps to 98% of
agencies that do not have a gang unit or a designated individual to track gang-related criminal activity.
As a result of an overall lack of training of officers coupled with a lack of tracking of gang activity by
agencies, arrestees who perpetrate crimes might never be identified as actual gang members.
Therefore, the numbers of gang sets and gang members are most likely underreported by Oklahoma
law enforcement officers.
Of the 1,006 gang sets operating within Oklahoma borders, Oklahoma, Tulsa, Cleveland and
Comanche counties reported the largest number of gang sets. Considering the population
distribution of Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman and Lawton, this is not surprising. What is surprising is
that each of the four counties reported more than 100 gang sets operating in each of these counties.
2 Emphasis is placed on the word "perception" in that the numbers are law enforcement "estimates" based on training,
experience and expertise in identifying characteristics of gang members. A more accurate gauge of gang-related criminal
activity would be an evaluation of all arrestees based upon a standardized, certification (validation) format. However, law
enforcement agencies have not yet adopted a standardized gang certification instrument for the state of Oklahoma.
Equally surprising is the fact that no county reported to have between 21 and 99 gang sets operating
within their jurisdictions. Nine counties reported between 10 and 20 gangs. These are Carter,
Cherokee, Garfield, Jackson, Kay, Love, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, and Seminole Counties. Forty-five
(45) counties reported 10 or less gang sets operating within their jurisdictions, including Adair,
Beaver, Beckham, Bryan, Caddo, Canadian, Cimarron, Cotton, Creek, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garvin,
Grady, Grant, Greer, Harmon, Harper, Hughes, Jefferson, Johnston, Kingfisher, Latimer, LeFlore,
Lincoln, Marshall, Mayes, McClain, McCurtain, Mcintosh, Murray, Muskogee, Okmulgee, Osage,
Ottawa, Payne, Pittsburg, Pushrnataha, Rogers, Sequoyah, Texas, Tillman, Wagoner, Washington and
Woodward Counties.
•• - Under' 10 Gan, Oklahoma Gang Sets Per County
Not surprisingly, Oklahoma City accounted for 16.8% and Tulsa accounted for 17% of Oklahoma's
total gang sets. Jointly, these two cities account for 33.8% of Oklahoma's gang sets; however, this is
somewhat explained in that the two metropolitan cities also account for 25.7% of Oklahoma's
population. The median number of gang sets for Oklahoma and Tulsa counties is 299 gang sets
compared to the median number of 13.1 gang sets for the remaining Oklahoma counties.
- 10 - 20 Gan9
• - Over 100 Gan,_ Sets
Counties in white indicates no
reported gang sets.
~~~.:.?~.
- ..-~
".,,," ..,,".,
'geology. com 5-8-07
Gangs are rapidly evolving into highly organized and sophisticated criminal organizations.
Geographically, they seek to stakeout territories for drug distribution and other gang-related criminal
activities. Generally, street gangs are most often divided into smaller subgroups or cells commonly
classified as sets or cliques. African-American gangs refer to these subgroups as cells or sets,
whereas Hispanic gangs refer to these subgroups as cliques. The gang subgroups are often identified
by territorial boundaries such as residential areas, street names or barrios (neighborhoods).
29
The sets or cliques will mark their territory most often with graffiti and violently defend that territory
against aggressive acts by rival gangs. In many cases, gangs respect the territory of another gang unless
there is a profit to be made through some criminal activity.
Most often, gangs are divided into African-American gangs, Hispanic gangs, Asian gangs, Motorcycle
gangs, and Hate gangs. However, it should be noted that some gangs included within this type
breakdown are not allies but are enemies, at least until confronted by law enforcement officials.
Then, even rival gangs have been known to unite to combat aggressive suppression efforts displayed
by local law enforcement agencies.
Oklahoma gangs are responsible for a broad range of criminal activity. Drug possession and
trafficking, violent assaults, larceny, weapons offenses, burglaries, and auto thefts appear at the top of
crimes committed by gangs in Oklahoma. Some crimes were not included on the list of crimes when
the original survey was implemented.
I
II
r-----r~'--~---~---j Number of Gang Sets :.p I
I Ranking Primary Crimes If\ep§rte,~:COmn1i,tting,tpeCrime! ercentage I
!,"AssaCTt-"-' ------- -----424---- 'r---10% --I
-"2-- ~D.r~;g' Possession r 365- rI -'--"60%---'-'1,
rTarceny7fheftT'--~"'>"< :'-'57% ·'-1
;--4-::---;-Weapons' Offens;s---. --- 296---'--"--'-:--49% "'--j
, .._._ . , .'''__.. _...__ ...__ '...,,_... .__ ."._. _.._.._ ._..'.__ ,."_.0..;.....".".,..,,_.. . .__.j
I 5' ! Vandalism , i 280 . 47% i I" • I "···-····..·"·6·'·······,··,'1 .. ·Bu'lila·ry·'··'·.·.'··-~'--·'·'···-~ !·"·-'···42~r'··-·-1
,---"-7-- ~D'r-uiTraffTCking-- 245 '--"41 % --I
t ,., ". """"''',,'' .-.-~ •...". • _--,--.,-_. - •...., ".,-,---_.- ..-,,----.- ••- --".,_ .�� ----..... .-.----- i
i 8 Auto Theft 187 3 I% i ri 9 Robbe'ry....··· ..",,·_'-_· ..'2"S% ...._--'i
F --Hr---" I Murder ...---- :··..-------·-94--------------;·---·16%·- .. --
.' ! " , ..•..•.•'•...'.' ....•'.
II Other
.,_.~.._ ...,,_.~.~¥·_~N_~_,·
12 Sexual Assaults/Rapes
~. -,-_. j- -,----
, Drive By Shootings! Not listed on the survey.
;'.'C'r'edit""Car(rfheft~-~" t·-·-'-""-·NotTfs't.ea'·o~-·"£he-"survey~"~·"'·"·---"-"
Dealing'in"StoTen------ ;'-"--"---NotTiste[onthe survey~----"-' "---,----
Goods
CRIMES COMMITTED BY O,I{L.AHOMA.(iANG SETS*
:·····Bre·ankgi"and"·Ente·rTng"·r·--"·-·T[ot7isi.ea"-on~the"·survey.·'----"··-'·"
___ ._ ,._~_,_ l
"The data pertains only to those law enforcement agencies reporting gang problems Gang Set Response n=602,
3 Oklahoma officers included drive by shootings in the assault category.
30
Many Oklahoma counties are encountering the presence of third-generation gang members, reporting
that many gangs have been operating in their jurisdictions for over 30 years. From the survey,
officers indicated that children are exposed to gang activity at an early age due to not only the ever
growing numbers of gang members in Oklahoma, but also due to parents, siblings, or other family
members who are reported to be known gang members.
This aging and stability of gang sets contribute to the fact that many Oklahoma gang members were
somewhat older than what might be expected. According to the survey, only 10.71 % of Oklahoma
gang sets were classified as gang sets with gang members predominately under twenty years of age.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, 56.6% of Oklahoma gang sets reported members over 30 years
of age.
Gang Set Age Distribution
However, Oklahoma's older outlaw motorcycle gang sets skew the numbers to some degree. When
removed, 46.9% of Oklahoma's gang sets are predominantly composed of members aged 30 and
under, whereas only 28.2% of Oklahoma gang sets have members 50 years of age and older.
/I 35.0% / 3-: ------/i;;:-~-------=---_____jL.!:...:..;..
,,
30.0%
25.0%
20.0%
15.0%
10.0%
5.0%
0.0%..p-~~~.....:,.
32.7%
--j
_~I
Under 20 Under 30 Under 40 Under 50
31
Gang Set Age Distribution Age Without OMG
40.0%
35.0%
30.0% /ll
-- __ ~--l"c
25.0% I"jl--~~~~
20.0%
15.0%
10.0%
5.0%
0.0%
I:!l Gang Set Age
IIAge Without OMG
Under20 Under30 Under40 Under50
Regardless of whether the outlaw motorcycle gangs are included or removed, Oklahoma gang sets
appear to be well established and capable of extremely sophisticated criminal operations. This
maturity and sophisticated structure further contributes to the ability to conceal the actual gang
leadership that stands to profit from the gang's criminal activities, thus making gang-related criminal
activities more difficult to detect and eliminate.
Interviews with gang members indicate that the reasons behind joining a gang are generally not
conscious and vary with the individual. It is suggested that one of the many reasons for joining a gang
is the identity that is obtained through the gang culture. Often, gang members perceive that by joining
a gang there is protection against the outside world. This may very well be true when multiple rival
gangs operate within a community. Protection from violence and attack is provided though gang
membership and involvement.
Studies also indicate that a family structure is often lacking in the lives of the youth that become
involved with gangs. If a sense of family is lacking, the closeness and protection that would typically be
available within the family is instead offered through gang involvement. This is often more attractive
than any negative consequences that may be a result of gang association. There is often an
intimidation factor involved, as well. Young new members may be forced to join in order to fend off
assaults and threats of assaults, either to themselves or family members.
Due to Oklahoma's massive interstate highway system, transient and migrant gang activity is
expected. Seventy-eight percent (78%) of responding agencies reported that their gang members
migrated into their jurisdictions from other states. Most frequently, Chicago, Los Angeles, Kansas
City, little Rock, San Antonio, and New Orleans were the primary cities from which gang migration
was reported, with California and Texas being the largest feeder states. Mexico and EI Salvador were
also cited as countries from which gang members migrate to Oklahoma.
32
Violent Crime in Oklahoma
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation is responsible for the collection of Uniform Crime
Report (UCR) data. Four (4) offenses comprise the Violent Crime Index and serve as indicators of
the state and nation's crime trends. These offenses include: murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated
assault.
Between 1996 and 1999, there has been a steady decline in the number of violent crimes reported in
Oklahoma. However, this trend reversed in 2000. From 200 I through 2004, the number of violent
crime remained relatively stable. However, in 2005, there was a 2.2% increase in the number of
violent crimes reported, from 17,636 in 2004 to 18,022 in 2005.
VIOLENT CRIME IN OKLAHOMA
1996-2005
20,000
C/l 19,500
CI.l
C/lc
CI.l 19,000
:t:
0.
•.... 18,500 0•...
CI.l
..0 18,000 E
:::I
Z 17,500
17,000
4~
710
\ 181552
~
~
~
~8 1802~
17715 ..Alh.. 17 58 ~. dL. ../ " 1 176/' ~"'17' ""'/11' 17p36
706 V 87 -iI
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005
In 2004, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Oklahoma ranks 14th in the nation in the number of
violent crimes committed based on the population. There are 342 crimes per 100,000 in Oklahoma.
Considering the state's population ranking is 28th in the nation, the ranking for violent crimes is
unsettling.
Firearms were employed in 69% of all reported murders. The use of a knife or
other cutting device was involved in 10.2% of the murders. The murder of one family member by
HOMICIDES
IN OKLAHOMA
1996 - 2005
YEAR TOTAL
1996 223
1997 229
1998 204
1999 231
2000 181
2001 185
2002 163
2003 206
2004 187
2005 187
Homicide
Oddly, the number of homicides that occurred in 2004 was also the number that
was reported in 2005. There was no increase in this area of violent crime.
Murders accounted for I% of all violent crimes reported: Of the 187 murders that
were committed, 153 were cleared by arrest or exceptional means, representing
a clearance rate of 81.8%. The highest number of murders during the last ten
years occurred in 1999 when there were 23 I murders.
Nearly 73% of the murder victims were male and 27% were female.
Approximately 61% of the victims were white, 34.2% were black, 4.3% were
Native American, and .5% were Asian. The most common age of the victim
ranged from 20 to 29.
33
.1 !
another accounted for 28, or 15% of all murders. Of the 187 offenses, 4.3% resulted from one
spouse killing another.
Rape
Rape is defined as the carnal knowledge of a female forcibly and against her will, regardless of age.
Statutory rape statistics are not included in this category. Forcible rape differs from other violent
crime in that the victim, in many cases, is hesitant to report the offense to the police.
In the UCR reporting statistics, rape is divided into (I) rape by force and (2) attempts to rape. In
2005, there were 1,480 reported forcible and attempted rapes, a 4.9% decrease from the number
reported in 2004. This accounted for approximately 8.2% of all violent crimes that were reported. A
total of 728 rapes were cleared by arrest or exceptional means, resulting in a clearance rate of
49.2%.
Of the persons arrested for rape, 46.3% were under the age of 25. Slightly more than 65% were
white, 27.4 were black, 6.3% were Indian, and .9% were Asian.
Forcible and Attempted Rapes
2003 to 2005
1000
500
o~-
2003 2004 2005
It should be noted that because the crime of rape is so significantly underreported that this data is
under representative of the true picture. There are a number of sexual assault victims that do not
report to law enforcement.
10 Foricible Rapes III Attempted Raptes I
Robbery
According to the Uniform Crime Report, robbery is defined as "the felonious and forcible taking of
property from the care, custody, or control of a person or persons by violence or putting the person
in fear and against his or her will." In order fOI' the crime of robbery to take place, the victim must be
present. Robberies are reported in the following categories: gun, knife or cutting instrument, other
dangerous weapon, and strong-arm robbery.
34
A total of 3,229 robberies were reported by law enforcement agencies in 2005, which accounted for
17.9% of all violent crimes. There were 960 robberies cleared resulting in a clearance rate of 29.7%.
The highest percentage of persons arrested for robbery was in the 25 to 29 age category. The largest
number of actual offenses, 38.9% or 1,255, occurred on the highway (street, alleys, etc), followed by a
residence. Armed robbery with any type of weapon occurred in 61.8% of the offenses.
Aggravated Assault
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation defines aggravated assault as an unlawful attack or an
attempt to attack through force or violence to do physical injury to another. An aggravated assault
may be committed with a gun, knife, or other cutting instrument, other dangerous weapon, or
through the aggravated use of hands, fists, or feet. All assaults where no weapon is used and which
results in minor injuries are classified as non-aggravated and are not counted in the index crime
totals.
A total of 13,126 aggravated assaults were reported by law enforcement agencies in 2005. Aggravated
assaults account for 72.8% of all violent crimes. A total of 6,628 aggravated assaults was cleared by
arrest or exceptional means, representing a clearance rate of 50.5%. Again, the 25 year-old to 29
year-old age group accounted for 14.6%, the highest percentage of persons arrested for aggravated
assault. Of all persons arrested, 65.7% were white, 23.5% were black, 10% were Indian, and .8% were
Asian.
Prison Population and Drug and Alcohol Treatment for Incarcerated Offenders
Consistent with prison growth in nearly every state, the prison population in Oklahoma has increased
every year since 1980. Even with the decrease in the crime rates during the 1990's the prison
population has steadily increased every year for the past two decades. This is, in part, because
Oklahoma now has fewer mechanisms to control the prison population. Many of the controls that
were once available were eliminated after a 1996 killing spree by an offender on an early release
program. In addition, lawmakers passed laws that forced certain offenders to serve at least 85% of
their sentences. Given this change, time served for violent offenders is increasing.
In fiscal year 2006 there were 24,377 inmates who were in the custody of the Department of
Corrections. Oklahoma experienced about a 1.7% increase in the prison population between 2005
and 2006. The length of the average prison sentence is down 14% since 200 I, from 7.3 years to 6.3
years, but the number of inmates required to serve 85% of their sentences has grown from 53 in
2000 to 3,600 in 2007.
35
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
Actual and Projected Inmate Population
30,000~-----------------------------------------~1-----------~-,Q-3~5
'2A,3 '25,A'\ 6 '26,3'\ 6
20,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Nationally, as well as in Oklahoma, the number of women in state prisons has grown exponentially in
the past three decades, growing at a rate more than twice the rate of the male population, according
to a report from the Women's Prison Association. Oklahoma's prison population during this time
grew from 172 in 1977 to 2,300 in 2004, the 12th highest increase in the nation.
In comparing the number of male inmates to the number of female inmates, it appears that the
number of female inmates is increasing at a faster pace than that of male inmates. In 1997,
Oklahoma's ratio was 23 male prisoners for every female; however, in 2004, that number decreased
to 9 male prisoners for everyone female prisoner, somewhat lower than the national average of 13
to I.
Per capita, however, Oklahoma ranks the highest in imprisoning women. Oklahoma incarcerates 129
women per 100,000 in the population. According to the report, most of the increases in female
imprisonment can be traced to drug offenses, most notably methamphetamine use.
One of the core components of the Department of Corrections is providing appropriate services to
offenders in custody in order to reduce recidivism. One of those services is drug and alcohol
treatment. According to the Oklahoma Department of Corrections (DOq, as of June 30, 2006,
there were 12,175 offenders in custody that had been identified as having a need for substance abuse
treatment. This represents approximately 50% of the total number of incarcerated offenders. With
the significant reduction in federal funding of the Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT)
grant, there is a need for continued or increased funding under the Justice Assistance Grant Program.
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, at least 95% of all State prisoners will be released from
prison at some point and nearly 80% will be released to parole supervision. Untreated substance
abuse offenders are more likely to relapse and return to criminal behavior. This often results in re-arrest
and re-incarceration, jeopardizing public safety, and taxing the criminal justice system.
Treatment while the offender is incarcerated is the best option.
36
Recidivism information for treated versus untreated offenders conducted by the DOC has provided
very clear data which indicates the efficacy of treatment. The DOC has compared offenders with a
treatment need that did not receive treatment, with offenders that did receive treatment. Across 65
months, RSAT graduates had a survival rate of 87.68% with a recidivism rate of 12.32%. By
comparison, those offenders that had a similar need for substance abuse treatment but did
not receive treatment had a survival rate of only 12.99% with an 87.01% recidivism rate as the
chart indicates.
Survival Analysis for RSAT Program Completions
Versus a Matched Sample with a Substance Abuse Need
Released from Prison without Treatment
7/01/2001 -12129/2006
100
90
OcJ 80
.>~ 70 ::s 60
(/) 50
C 40 -----i
Q) ~ 30 Q) c.. 20
10
0
. - -
-------------------~~.-- •.-----------------------------------------------
.• .. ..
Program Completion - - - Stratified Sample I .. ..
1----------------------------------------------------------= ••-,.~••-------- - - - -
1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 33 35 37 39 41 43 45 47 49 51 53 55 57 59 61 63 65
Month
In the past, funds were available for the residential substance abuse treatment through the Residential
Substance Abuse Treatment (RSA T) Grant. However, the federal government has significantly
reduced the funding for the RSAT Grant. In 2003, the State of Oklahoma received $1.08 million in
federal funds. In 2007, the State of Oklahoma received only $163,521 to implement the RSAT Grant.
LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT
Local law enforcement has the primary responsibility for protecting citizens in Oklahoma from crime
and violence. Oklahoma has 479 local law enforcement agencies and 21 tribal law enforcement
agencies. Throughout the state, there are approximately 13,913 full time and reserve law
enforcement officers. These law enforcement agencies are responsible for covering more than 68,000
square miles with Oklahoma.
It is critical that local law enforcement and tribal law enforcement agencies have the resources
needed to successfully perform their duties. The majority of jurisdictions continue to contend with
shrinking budgets and limited financial resources. These hindrances negatively impact their ability to
fulfill their responsibilities. In addition, the considerable reduction in federal funding through the
Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security in the past several years has made
the situation increasingly more untenable. These federal funding cuts have negatively impacted local
law enforcement's ability to address their core duties and have definitely limited the ability to
improve overall effectiveness.
37
In a time when technology is progressing rapidly and state and federal law enforcement agencies are
often able to take advantage of the latest technological advancements, local law enforcement is
struggling to maintain the basics. It is not uncommon for rural law enforcement to deal with a
significantly aging fleet and equipment that has not been replenished and is past the prime usage.
The State of Oklahoma has a history of using Local Law Enforcement Block Grant funds for the
purpose of procuring equipment for local and tribal law enforcement. With the creation of the Justice
Assistance Grant, the JAG Board continued this funding tradition. However, with the dramatic
reduction in JAG funding 2006, this goal was eliminated. Fortunately, an increase in funding in 2007
allowed a limited reinstatement of funds for this purpose.
CRIMINAL HISTORY INTEGRATION
In 1992, as a result of the Bureau of Justice Assistance's (BJA) establishment of a funding stream
within the Byrne Grant Program to improve the criminal history records and records systems, a task
force under the Drug and Violent Crime Grant Board, now the Justice Assistance Grant Board, was
established. The mission of the Oklahoma Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) Task Force is
to improve public safety by collecting, disseminating, and integrating the state's criminal history and
sex offender record systems. It is critical that this process address the accurate and timely reporting
of records. Through the CJIS Task Force, the key criminal justice agencies meet bi-monthly to
discuss, plan, strategize, and review progress regarding the improvement of criminal history records
and to further efforts toward integration among the agencies.
To achieve the goal of the CJIS Task Force, infrastructure within the state agencies and local
governments first had to be established. In the past, a significant level of Byrne Grant funding assisted
with this effort. Since the majority of these developments have occurred, the focus has shifted to the
integration of criminal history information among local, state and federal agencies. Unfortunately,
there is still a significant amount of work that must be done in this area.
In today's electronic age, the public expects the criminal justice system to be integrated. The public
expects law enforcement, prosecution, courts, and corrections agencies to routinely share
information regarding criminals. According to the IJIS Institute, a 50 I(c)(3) organization that has as its
mission to contribute to the successful implementation of integrated justice information systems
nationwide by promoting the expertise, knowledge, and experience of the information technology
(IT) industry in a way that benefits both the private and public sectors, criminal history records in the
U.S. are accurate complete only about 60% of the time. Compared to the financial world, billions of
transactions occur daily with far more accuracy and efficiency than justice and law enforcement
agencies that are unable to track a single criminal from state to state, sometimes even county to
county within a state.
Unfortunately, law enforcement and criminal justice agencies are lagging significantly behind the
private sector in terms of technology. Many criminal history records processes and procedures that
must be shared between law enforcement and criminal justice agencies remain on paper, rather than
as computerized processes. This is an incredibly ineffective and inefficient way to share time-critical
information. Because agencies are not integrated, a duplication of efforts is recreated for each agency,
and time delays and data entry errors are more common.
Law enforcement and justice agencies at the local, state, and federal levels need to find ways to
overcome obstacles to sharing information. It is no longer appropriate for law enforcement,
38
prosecution, courts, and corrections agencies to use systems that operate independently with no
exchange of computerized data between them. By integrating, it not only increases the ability to solve
crimes but it also keeps communities safer.
39
2008 - 2012 OKLAHOMA STATE STRATEGY
For The
Justice Assistance Grant
JAG Program Priorities
Overview
In order to develop a state strategy and identify priorities for funding, the Board reviewed a variety of
current, valid, and per-tinent data. In addition, the Board conducted an examination of the positive
progress occurring in various areas of the criminal justice system, completed an individual survey on
priorities for funding, and obtained input from a statewide Public Hearing.
After a careful review of the data and analysis, the JAG Board was able to make informed decisions
concerning the most effective and efficient usage of the limited resources dedicated toward reducing
drugs and violent crime in Oklahoma. For the 2008 - 2012 State Strategy, the following goals were
established: -
I. Reduce the importation, manufacturing, distribution, and possession of illegal drugs and controlled
substances throughout the state;
2. Reduce the trafficking of illegal drugs and controlled substances in and through the state;
3. Reduce the violence related to gangs through prevention, enforcement, and prosecution;
4. Assist local law enforcement through the procurement of equipment;
5. Encourage innovative law enforcement projects that address drugs and violent crime control that
improves the functioning of the criminal justice system;
6. Encourage innovative prosecution projects that address drugs and violent crime control that
improves the functioning of the criminal justice system;
7. Encourage innovative prevention projects that address drugs and violent crime control that
improves the functioning of the criminal justice system;
8. Improve the integration of criminal history records between criminal justice agencies; and,
9. Reduce prison recidivism by providing effective drug and alcohol treatment for incarcerated
juvenile and/or adult offenders.
Each award year, the JAG Board will prioritize funding based on the funding level and the goals set forth
in the strategy. The purpose areas under the JAG Program are:
40
Purpose Area Description
I Law Enforcement Programs
2 Prosecution and Court Programs
3 Prevention and Education Programs
4 Corrections and Community Corrections Programs
5 Drug Treatment Programs
6 Planning, Evaluation, and Technology Improvement Programs
41
2008 - 2012 OKLAHOMA STATE STRATEGY
For The
Justice Assistance Grant
Coordination Efforts
The effort to coordinate the JAG Program with other federal programs continues to occur. There is
coordination between federal grant programs and the various Boards that provide oversight as well
as increased collaboration with other state agencies that implement and/or receive federal funding in
an effort to reduce duplication and maximize resources.
Coverdell Forensic Sciences Improvement Act Grant
The purpose of the Forensic Sciences Improvement Task Force is to improve the quality and
timeliness of forensic science services to the criminal justice system in Oklahoma and to reduce the
backlog of forensic science cases. Since the goal of the JAG Program is to improve the functioning of
the criminal justice system, with special emphasis on drug-related crimes, violent crimes and serious
offenders and forensic labs are indelibly intertwined in these types of crimes, it is a coordinating effort
that will function well and maximize the funding efforts for both grant programs.
COPS Grant
A collaborative effort that is in the process of concluding with COPS Grant funding and the Drug
Task Forces is the Canister Program. The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs
Control (OBNDDC) was awarded a COPS Grant and has elected to use nearly one-half of the award
to establish a Canister Program in the state. The Canister Program provides a hazardous waste
storage facility in 5 counties throughout the state. OBNDDC provided either a IO'x 10' or a 10'x24'
facility whel-e hazardous waste from clandestine methamphetamine labs can be stored for up to one
week if properly packaged with a required EPIC lab tracker number.
As a result of this effort, the time spent by drug task forces waiting for qualified disposal personnel to
remove all chemicals and associated glassware, equipment, and contaminated materials and waste
from the sites of each seized laboratory will be significantly reduced and the processes and procedures
in meth lab clean up for the state will be significantly enhanced.
North Texas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area
In late 2002, six counties were incorporated into the area of coverage of the North Texas High
Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). The area covered by the North Texas HIDTA is a national
transshipment and distribution region for drugs arriving from Mexico and destined for northern
Texas, Oklahoma, and other areas in the country. In an effort to collaborate with the efforts of the
North Texas HIDTA, the Drug Task Force Coordinator attends and participates at the quarterly
meetings as a representative of the drug task forces throughout the state.
One of HIDTA's goals was to create a deconfliction program. A deconfliction program monitors
search warrants, controlled buys, and "reverse buys" to prevent local law enforcement agencies,
42
drug task forces, and federal agencies from unknowingly encountering each other during planned
activities. The deconfliction program will have a 24 hour, 7 day monitoring service where drug task
forces can access this information for a specific locality. In order to ensure usage of the deconfliction
program, the DAC added this as a Special Condition for JAG awards.
Organized Crime Enforcement Task Force
The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) is a federal drug enforcement
program that focuses attention and resources on the disruption and dismantling of major drug
trafficking organizations. OCDETF provides a framework for federal, state, and local law
enforcement agencies to work together to target well-established and complex organizations that
direct, finance, or engage in illegal narcotics trafficking and related crimes, such as money laundering,
tax violations, public corruption, illegal immigrations, weapons violations, and violent crimes. The
Drug Task Forces are attentive to cases that may integrate into the OCDETF Program. Once Drug
Task Forces identify offenders in their community that fit the criteria for OCDETF, an Assistant
United States Attorney is contacted. Drug Task Forces throughout the state are actively filing cases
under the OCDETF Project.
Project Safe Neighborhoods and the Anti-Gang Initiative
Led by the 94 U.S. Attorneys throughout the country, Project Safe Neighborhoods and the Anti-
Gang Initiative are programs to reduce gun and gang crime in America by bringing together resources
from the local, state and federal levels. The goal is to create safer neighborhoods by reducing gun and
gang violence and then sustaining the reduction.
As a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Drug Task Forces have been trained by the Office of
the United States Attorneys in all three districts in order to become a part of the solution in
reducing firearms violence in their communities. Drug Task Forces throughout the state are actively
filing cases under the Project Safe Neighborhoods Projects.
Association of Oklahoma Narcotics Enforcers
Since drug task forces continue to be the primary approach to combat Oklahoma's drug problem, a
effort between local law enforcement agencies and the drug task forces continues. Beginning in 2003,
administrative funds were used to provide local law enforcement officers with the opportunity to
attend a premier, state of the art training on narcotics enforcement. This four-day annual training is
sponsored by the Association of Oklahoma Narcotics Enforcers (A-ONE) in August of each year in
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The DAC has paid for the registration fees and/or lodging expenses for
task force members and local law enforcement officers from each of the drug task forces.
Overwhelmingly, the drug task forces report that attending this training with their local law
enforcement counterparts significantly improved relationships more than any other effort ever
undertaken.
43
SOURCES
Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2005 Oklahoma Youth Risk Behavior Survey,
www.cdc.gov/datastatistics.
Office of the Chief Medical Examiner Annual Report: 2006, January I - December 3 I, State of Oklahoma.
Office of National Drug Control Policy, News and Public Affairs, Early Marijuana Use a Warning Sign for
Later Gang Involvement: New Report Shows Teens Who Use Drugs Are More Likely to Engage in Violent and
Delinquent Behavior, June 19, 2007.
http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov/news/press07/061907.html
Office of National Drug Control Policy, Drug Policy Information Clearinghouse, State of Oklahoma: Profile of
Drug Indicators, May 2007.
Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control, Cocaine Fact Sheet, 2007.
http://www.ok.gov.obndd/DrugFactSheets/CocaineFactSheet.html
Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control, 2006 Drug Deaths in Oklahoma, Office
of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Oklahoma Department of Commerce, 2006 Population Estimates by Single Age and Sex: Oklahoma
Population Estimates Division - U.S. Census Bureau,
http://staging.okcommerce.govltest IIdmdocuments12006 Oklahoma Population Estimates by Si
ngle Age Sex 1805071953.pdf
Oklahoma Department of Corrections, Strategic Plan FY2004 -FY2008, www.doc.state.ok.us.
Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Needs Assessment Studies,
Treatment for Alcohol and Other Drugs
Oklahoma District Attorneys Council, State Annual Report for the Edward Byrne Memorial Formula Grant
Program - July 1,2002 - June 30,2003.
Oklahoma Intelligence Center, North Texas HIDTA, Oklahoma Drug Threat Assessment and Strategy
2007.
Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, State of Oklahoma 2005 Uniform Crime Report,
www.osbi.state.ok.us.
U.S. Census Bureau, State Rankings - Statistical Abstract of the United States, Violent Crime \ I Per 100,000
Population - 2004, Februar-y I, 2006.
http://www.census.gov/statab/ranks/rank21.html
U.S. Census Bureau, 2005 Statistical Abstract, Money Income of Households-vl-ledian Income in
Current and Constant, http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/tables/07s0672.xls
44
U.S. Census Bureau, 2005 Statistical Abstract, Resident Population by Race, Hispanic or Latino Origin,
and State: 2000 to 2005, http://www.census.gov/compendia/statabltables/07s0023.xls
U.S. Census Bureau, 2005 Statistical Abstract, State Population - Rank, Percent Change, and
Population Density: 1960 to 2005, http://www.census.gov/compendia/statabltables/07s00 IB.xls
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration, Office of Applied Studies, Emerging Trends in Drug Abuse,
www.samhsa.gov/oas/NHSDAltreatanltreanaIO.htm.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration, Office of Applied Studies, Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS) 2002,
http://wwwdasis.samhsa.govlteds02/6a.htm
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration, Office of Applied Studies, Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS) 2003,
http://wwwdasis.samhsa.govlteds03/2003 teds highlights.pdf
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration, Office of Applied Studies, Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS) 2004,
http://wwwdasis.samhsa.govlteds04/TEDSHi2k4TbI6a.htm
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