Christian: DOC Staff Level Statement ‘Is shocking’

House Media Division

Rep. Mike Christian, R-Oklahoma City, released a statement today in response to comments made in relation to staffing levels at the Oklahoma Department of Corrections.

“Recent comments made by Gov. Fallin’s general counsel regarding Department of Corrections staffing levels is shocking. It is unconscionable to state that the current staffing levels are adequate to provide the necessary safety of not only the correctional officers but also the general public. Current staffing levels have created a ticking time bomb that will have disastrous consequences if we don’t take immediate action to attract and retain correctional officers.

“As a retired trooper, I know first-hand the stress involved in public safety and find it ludicrous to imply that public safety professionals should expect to work double shifts. Undoubtedly, the dedicated men and women of the Department of Corrections will work whatever hours are necessary to ensure the safety of the public and of their co-workers. However, to state that they should expect to work on-going, mandatory overtime and double-shifts is irresponsible and disrespectful to these hard working Oklahomans.”


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