OCDC Announces Operational Improvements under Jail Administrator Tim Kimrey

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Oklahoma County Detention Center Announces Operational Improvements

Under Jail Administrator Tim Kimrey

Oklahoma City, OK (March 26, 2026) - The Oklahoma County Detention Center (OCDC) today announced a series of significant operational improvements implemented under the leadership of Jail Administrator Tim Kimrey and together with the jail staff. Since assuming leadership, Administrator Kimrey has focused on strengthening accountability, improving efficiency, and establishing a more structured and disciplined operational environment within the facility.

Over the past six months, OCDC has taken deliberate steps to address long-standing operational challenges, enhance internal controls, and improve the overall stability of jail operations. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to responsible management, public safety, and the effective use of taxpayer resources.

“We have worked to build a culture grounded in accountability, discipline, and clear expectations at every level of the organization,” said Jail Administrator Kimrey. “These changes are designed to create a safer, more consistent environment for both staff and inmates, while ensuring we operate as efficiently as possible.”

The improvements outlined below represent targeted actions taken to reduce costs, streamline operations, and reinforce organizational standards. While challenges remain, these measures mark meaningful progress in strengthening the detention center’s day-to-day operations.

Key Improvements and Cost-Saving Measures

• Jail deaths have been reduced to an all-time low since the creation of the Jail Trust

o The jail is currently operating at one of the longest sustained periods without multiple deaths since 1996.

• Drug overdoses have dropped by over 65%.

• The deployment of NARCAN (to reverse the effects of fentanyl) have dropped to almost zero. The average number of Narcan administered the last 5 months was 2.2 vs 19.4 in the same months in the previous year. That is an 89% decrease when comparing those time periods.

• Medical staff have saved the lives of approximately sixteen inmates based on suspected overdoses, suicide attempts, and other medical episodes requiring CPR.

• Passed OKC/County Health Department inspection for the kitchen and food services.

• Obtained new equipment for inmate meals that have resulted in more timely food distribution.

• Changed inmate menu and increased caloric intake from 2500 to 3000.

• Reduced overall inmate population from 1650 to 1420.

• Reduced jail and sentenced inmates from 203 to 93.

• OKC Police contract was signed, and we have been reimbursed for almost $500,000.

• Our training academy increased from 1 week to 8 weeks with scenario-based training.

• GED program started with OIC (Opportunities Industrialization Center).

• Changed vendors from Bob Barker industries to purchase from OCI (Oklahoma Correctional Industries) saving the OCDC thousands of dollars.

• Reduced the 5.8 million FY25/26 deficit by over one million dollars.

• Reduced contract costs with vendors through renegotiating.

o Medical Billing: Reduced per bill processed amount from $40 to $12. For approximate savings of $65,000 per year.

o Initially reduced hourly rate of contract safety check officers for an approximate savings of $500,000 for the FY.

• Medical: Estimated yearly cost savings of $671,789.32 to $720,253.32.

• Seized contraband and weapons have resulted in a 50% reduction in inmate injuries.

• Completely restructured the command staff and inserted experienced and qualified personnel that has resulted in a more effective and efficient operational hierarchy.

• Release times have improved from over 24 hrs. to under 12 hours.

These actions represent a meaningful shift toward a more disciplined, accountable, and efficient operation. Notably, the detention center is currently experiencing one of the longest sustained periods on record with only a single in-custody death, reflecting measurable progress in safety and overall operations.