Oklahoma Co. Jail Issues Statement After Medical Provider Says It Will Leave If Staff Isn’t Increased Following Hostage Takeover

The officer involved in the hostage situation at the Oklahoma County Detention Center is home from the hospital and recovering.

Jail administration told News 9 they would be holding a press conference at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday. 

Staff also sent out new information, including details on the partnership with their medical provider.

Monday News 9 learned the jail’s provider, Turn Key Health, sent the jail a written warning. It said the jail needed to increase staffing levels or they would end their contract. Turn Key's main concern was the safety of their staff inside the jail. 

However, the jail administrator and Turn Key sent a joint statement Tuesday. It said the provider’s warning does not mean they want to stop serving the detention center.

Instead, Turn Key said they are "committed partners."

Jail administrator Greg Williams’ portion of the statement said they have already found a short-term solution with the Department of Corrections.

The jail’s statement said they are "actively pursuing long term solutions” but does not go on into details. 

From Turn Key Health Clinics, CEO Flint Junod

On March 29th, Turn Key Health Clinics submitted a Notice of Defect to the Jail Administrator for the Oklahoma County Detention Center. This notice is not evidence of any desire to stop serving the Oklahoma County Detention Center. On the contrary, we remain committed partners with the Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Authority and hope to continue this partnership. It is the hope of all sides that this issue can be resolved quickly.

 From the Oklahoma County Detention Center, Jail Administrator Greg Williams

 We are in receipt of Turn Key’s notice and understand. We too are hopeful we can resolve this issue promptly as Turn Key Health Clinics is a quality healthcare provider for our detainees. The Detention Center has acknowledged the staffing challenges we face and are committed to resolving them quickly to continue the relationship with and ensure the safety of our vendors who care for detainees. We have already taken short-term measures to solidify staffing levels and are actively pursuing long-term solutions. To that end, we encourage those looking to join the new team we are building at the Oklahoma County Detention Center to join us in fulfilling our mission: To provide protection through efficient and effective services and intervention leading to less victimization, and more personal growth and development. Anyone interested in joining that mission should apply through our website at: www.okcountydc.net

News 9 was told three employees have resigned or submitted their resignation since Sunday.

The jail also sent News 9 a statement on the hostage situation.  For the full release see below.