Pilot initiative will evaluate drone effectiveness in securing facilities
The Oklahoma Department of Corrections is taking a significant step in enhancing security measures at Red Rock Correctional Center by introducing advanced drone technology. The pilot program launched this week will provide continuous aerial coverage above the ODOC correctional facility.
This initiative represents a significant progress in correctional operations and aims to combat the increased smuggling of contraband, including drugs, cellphones and weapons, into the facility, while emphasizing staff safety.
“Innovation in corrections is at the heart of our mission.”
– ODOC Chief of Operations Jason Sparks
“As we know, contraband is a huge problem,” Chief Administrator of IT and Project Management Candice Moore said. “Anything we can do to keep our staff and inmates safe, we are going to utilize. This technology is going to be a game-changer. We’ve mapped the entire facility; it knows what and who should and should not be on our yard.”
ODOC is partnering with Skydio and Levatas for this pilot program.
“This is the first opportunity we’ve had to interact with a department of corrections to analyze the technology at a correctional facility,” Levatas VP of Success Adrienne Zarn said.
The tech companies will supply unmanned drones and AI systems – designed to alert staff to potential safety, security and maintenance issues.
“The autonomous drone platform provides for continuous eyes around the facility. It will give data to those who can take action quickly and provide a deterrent for future cases,” said Zarn.
Red Rock will deploy a fleet of flying robots. Alongside the autonomous drones, the agency is now training correctional officers to become certified pilots.
These officers will oversee yard activities and the facility's perimeter, maintaining a high level of vigilance.
“By integrating drone technology into our operations, we’re safeguarding our staff, inmates, and the public from threats posed by contraband smuggling,” ODOC Director Justin Farris said. “This provides us with an innovative tool to stay ahead of criminals’ evolving tactics.”
This initiative will stop contraband from being dropped behind prison walls and allow officers to focus on more important duties that help rehabilitate those in ODOC's care.
“Currently, an officer is doing perimeter detection. Usually, an officer drives around the perimeter 24/7,” Moore said. “This causes wear and tear on the vehicle, the mileage adds up, plus the cost of gas. This technology replaces that.”
The introduction of drone surveillance is part of a comprehensive plan to improve safety protocols at Red Rock Correctional Center. The agency is dedicated to using innovative technologies to deter illegal activities and maintain order within the facility.
“Innovation in corrections is at the heart of our mission,” said ODOC Chief of Operations Jason Sparks. “By incorporating advanced drone technology, we aim to enhance real-time surveillance and improve rapid incident response. Our goals include strengthening safety for both staff and inmates, as well as improving operational efficiency through more effective monitoring and resource allocation.
After the first 45-day trial period, ODOC will evaluate the data and cost savings for the agency. Administrators will then consider expanding the drone program to facilities across the state.
