Two inmates were killed and three others injured in a deadly “group disturbance” at the Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility in Oklahoma. The incident occurred when two groups of prisoners that needed to remain separate crossed paths due to “human error,” according to the Oklahoma Department of Corrections spokesperson Kay Thompson. The GEO Group, which specializes in rehabilitation programs for individuals in custody, is working with the Operations team to investigate the error and determine corrective actions that need to be taken. The incident resulted in two deaths and three injuries, with two inmates suffering serious injuries and being transported to a hospital.
Contrary to some news reports that claimed 30 people were injured, only 10 were involved in the altercation at the facility. The ODOC stated that the incident was a “group disturbance” rather than a riot, which typically involves inmates causing significant damage and disruption. The facility remains on lockdown, with a facility-wide shakedown underway. The agency views mitigating violence as a priority and has implemented a stricter misconduct policy and other strategies to decrease inmate-on-inmate violence. The policy prohibits inmates from banding together to incite disruption, assaults, rioting, or other disturbances, with offenses punishable by various measures depending on the severity.
State Rep. Justin Humphrey criticized the ODOC for ignoring the escalating violence in Oklahoma prisons, particularly following the deadly incident at Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility. Humphrey referred to the incident as a riot and expressed disappointment in the agency’s handling of the situation. The ODOC responded by stating that Humphrey lacked an understanding of what constitutes a riot in a correctional setting and accused him of misrepresenting the truth to fit his own narrative. The agency emphasized its commitment to the health and safety of those in its care and incarcerated in contracted facilities.
The ODOC is working to understand how the groups of prisoners were able to cross paths due to human error and what corrective actions are needed to prevent similar incidents in the future. The agency continues to prioritize efforts to reduce violence within its facilities and maintain a safe and secure environment for staff and inmates. The deadly “group disturbance” at the Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility highlighted the challenges faced by corrections agencies in managing inmates and preventing incidents of violence. The incident has sparked debate and criticism from lawmakers and officials regarding the state of Oklahoma’s prison system and the need for improved safety measures.
