Oklahoma County jail reports drop in contraband overdoses, outlines staffing and medical changes

Mark O’Brien, communications director for the Oklahoma County Detention Center, told the Citizens Advisory Board on March that contraband overdoses that prompted heavy Narcan use in January have dropped sharply after changes to intake and other procedures.

“In January, we administered 52 doses of Narcan,” O’Brien said. “So far in the last month of February, we administered 9.” He added that the facility’s average per‑person need is typically one to two doses, though some cases have required more.

O’Brien said the jail changed procedures in intake and the mail room, sped changes to clothing policy so newly booked people are dressed in facility clothing immediately, and began periodic canine searches with the Office of Inspector General to find contraband introduced by staff, contractors or incoming detainees. He said the jail also is partnering with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration on certain investigations.

On medical services, the jail ended its contract with the previous provider, Turnkey, late…