The Oklahoma Department of Corrections announces it has entered into an agreement to purchase the Lawton Correctional Facility from the G-E-O Group.

As part of the agreement, ODOC will assume operational of the Lawton location on July 25 and will assume full responsibility once the sale is finalized by the Oklahoma Broad of Corrections. The agreement will bring the last private prison in Oklahoma under the control of the state. Representatives from ODOC say the agency will work closely with current employees to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of operations.

ODOC Director Stephen Harpe called the transition a move that will strengthen public safety infrastructure and a reflection of ODOC's commitment to better outcomes for all Oklahomans.