Oklahoma City, along with its police department, has come under scrutiny from the U.S. Department of Justice for allegedly discriminating against individuals with behavioral health disabilities. This revelation follows the release of a comprehensive report detailing the findings of a recent investigation into various law enforcement agencies at the state and local levels.
The 45-page report outlines serious concerns regarding the treatment of adults with mental health issues in Oklahoma City. The DOJ determined that the city frequently resorts to unnecessarily institutionalizing these individuals and that police responses to crisis situations normally involve armed officers rather than trained behavioral health professionals. This approach often exacerbates urgent mental health situations, leading to escalated crises and, in some cases, unnecessary use of force, according to Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke from the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division.
Oklahoma City officials, including Police Chief Ron Bacy, indicated they were in the process of reviewing the report’s contents. The investigation was initiated in 2022 following a complaint, although specific details surrounding the complaint were not disclosed. The DOJ chose to remain tight-lipped on the matter through a spokesperson.
The investigation in Oklahoma City is part of a broader pattern, as the DOJ has opened 12 similar inquiries since April 2021. These investigations have often been initiated in the wake of notable incidents of police violence, such as the deaths of George Floyd in Minneapolis and Breonna Taylor in Louisville. Previous investigations have consistently revealed patterns of unlawful police conduct.
The DOJ’s report indicated a willingness to collaborate with city and state officials to address the findings and work toward a resolution. However, it also stated that if an agreement could not be reached, legal action might be necessary to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
In response to the DOJ’s findings, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond and Governor Kevin Stitt have expressed their acknowledgment of the urgent need for reforms in the state’s mental health system. Nonetheless, they voiced criticisms of the DOJ, suggesting that the current administration’s approach amounts to federal overreach. “We will closely review the findings, but the DOJ report appears to be an attempt to bully Oklahoma into compliance with ever-changing and undefined targets,” Drummond stated.
