DOC Opens New Mangum Work Center
The official opening of the newest DOC facility was held Thursday August 26 in Mangum Oklahoma. In a joint effort between the Federal Government, the state Department of Corrections, and the City of Mangum the National Guard Amory that was shut down was converted into a beautiful full functioning work center. The center now houses 93 inmates, up from the previous 42. It also has a staff of 12 corrections employees.
Mike Carr, the regional director for NW Oklahoma introduced the special guests that included State Senator Tom Ivester, Representative Purcy Walker, Mayor Maxine Thomason, Director Justin Jones and others.
Senator Ivester said, “This is what can happen when all branches of government work together. This facility is a model of what a work center should be.”
Mayor Thomason stated that “the Chamber of Commerce has a motto of preserving the past and securing our future and this is an example of just that. It is of mutual benefit to the state and the community.”
Justin Jones commented that the facility was a bright spot in what has been a difficult year for the department.
Each of the speakers pointed out the incredible staff at the Mangum facility. They also recognized some of the projects that the inmates in the facility have had a part in around the community. Things such as the senior citizens center, the local splash pad, golf course clubhouse renovation, the schools athletic facility, fairgrounds and the airport.
The Mangum Work Center is overseen by OPEA member and Chief of Security Greg Bull. Bull said, “this is a facility that both the staff and offender can be proud of. The employees here have gone above and beyond what is expected of them.”
