Lawton prison officially renamed as Chief James Smith Correctional Center

On Friday, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and the Lawton-Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially rename the Lawton prison as the Chief James Smith Correctional Center. Community members and local legislators attended the event to honor the former police chief who passed away in January of this year.

Chairman Trey Caldwell and Senator Spencer Kern led the effort last legislative session to dedicate the correctional facility to Chief Smith, whose life was committed to serving others through his law enforcement and military careers. Both spoke about how they were honored to help rename the facility after a man who played a vital role in the Lawton-Fort Sill and public safety communities. Rep. Daniel Pae echoed their sentiments and shared his experience working with Chief Smith during his time with the City of Lawton.

ODOC Director Justin Farris said, “The Chief James Smith Correctional Center will carry forward a legacy of service while embracing the future of corrections in Oklahoma. It will stand as a symbol of our commitment to safety, professionalism and the belief that people can change when given the opportunity.”

In July 2025, the State of Oklahoma purchased the facility from the GEO Group, ending the state's use of privately operated correctional facilities to house Oklahoma inmates. At that time, the facility was renamed Red Rock Correctional Center.