A tragic incident occurred at the Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility in southern Oklahoma, resulting in the deaths of two inmates and injuries to several others. According to prison authorities, the disturbance occurred on Friday and is currently under investigation by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections.
Kay Thompson, the department’s chief of public relations, revealed that an “operational error” allowed the disturbance to happen. She clarified that the incident was related to “security threat groups,” which is a term used to describe gangs within the prison system. As a precautionary measure, the facility has been placed on lockdown, and all visitations have been canceled for the weekend.
The GEO Group, a security company that manages the prison under contract with the government, confirmed that the deaths and injuries were the result of an inmate-on-inmate assault.
Oklahoma Prison Violence Leaves Two Dead, Dozens Injured
While the names of the deceased inmates were not disclosed, two others sustained serious injuries and were transported to a hospital for treatment. Additionally, numerous inmates suffered minor injuries, with one officer also sustaining minor injuries.
Thompson stated that the exact cause of the “operational error” is still under investigation, and further details will be provided once the investigation concludes. Despite being a privately-run prison, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections is closely collaborating with The GEO Group to ascertain the circumstances leading to the disturbance and implement necessary corrective actions.
The GEO Group emphasized its commitment to the health and safety of all individuals under its care, asserting a zero-tolerance policy towards acts of violence. Located approximately 86 miles southwest of Oklahoma City, the Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility has been operational since 1998 and has a capacity for 2,682 inmates.
