Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Advisory Council

08/08/2026

By connecting individuals in crisis with appropriate care and support, Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) helps ensure behavioral health emergencies receive a health-focused response rather than a law enforcement response whenever possible. This approach reduces strain on emergency systems, improves outcomes for those in crisis and fosters a safer, more supportive community for everyone.

08/03/2026

Understanding the difference between recidivism and desistance is key to understanding the justice system’s long-term impact.

Recidivism refers to a person returning to criminal behavior after previous involvement with the justice system, while desistance is the gradual process of moving away from criminal behavior, or engaging in less serious criminal behavior, over time. Both are a crucial part of understanding the cycle of criminal justice interactions.

07/19/2026

Oklahoma County has implemented automated text reminders for court appearances, which helps reduce failure-to-appear rates by about 20%. This simple but effective tool improves communication with individuals navigating the court system, ensuring they have timely and accessible reminders of upcoming obligations.

Opt in for text reminders for yourself or your clients at OSCN.net and click “Court Dockets.” Search by name or use your case number and county. Select “Get Text Reminders” under the event section.

07/17/2026

07/13/2026

Our July meeting is cancelled. Visit okcountycjac.com/meetings to see a list of upcoming meetings.

07/07/2026

Mental health needs continue to place significant demand on Oklahoma’s justice systems. In April, detainees at the Oklahoma County Detention Center had 3,078 mental health contacts with medical staff, while in May, there were 3,348.

These numbers reinforce the growing need for intentional, community-based mental health resources that can better support those in crisis while reducing strain on emergency systems.

07/01/2026

Huge congratulations to Diversion Hub on the opening of their new location! The staff there has changed countless lives for the better, and this expanded space means they can serve even more individuals and families through evidence-based interventions.

As we heard from the Arnall Family Foundation at the ribbon cutting, every person caught up in the system is a neighbor and their future is tied up with all of ours.

It’s incredible to see our community invest in solutions like this, alongside MAPS 4. More capacity, more support, more lives changed is a trajectory we’re proud to be part of.

06/26/2026

Veterans who struggle with PTSD, mental health challenges or substance use deserve a system that understands the unique challenges that can come with military service.

See what CJAC Executive Director Melissa Walton has to say about the importance of mental health resources and the Oklahoma County Veterans Treatment Court during PTSD Awareness Month here: https://journalrecord.com/2026/06/10/oklahoma-county-veterans-treatment-court-supports-military-families/

06/15/2026

CJAC’s monthly public meeting will be held this Thursday, June 18 at 3 p.m. in the NorthCare Training Room (2617 General Pershing Blvd, OKC, OK 73107). We hope you’ll join us!

A full list of 2026 meeting dates is available on our website at okcountycjac.com/meetings.

06/10/2026

Join the Diversion Hub for a special ribbon cutting ceremony on June 24 at noon to celebrate the grand opening of their new building. The new facility will provide a flexible space for the organization’s growing mission and expanding partnerships to thrive.

📍 1200 Linwood Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73106