Governor Stitt Launches Operation SAFE in Tulsa to Clear Homeless Encampments and Enforce the Law
Governor Kevin Stitt today announced the launch of Operation SAFE (Swift Action for Families Everywhere) to restore order and safety to Tulsa by clearing homeless encampments, trash, and criminal activity from state-owned property inside the city.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) has the legal authority to target state-owned property including underpasses, highways, state buildings, and other state-controlled land. Governor Stitt made clear that while the state is stepping up to fulfill its duty, the long-term responsibility for city property rests with the City of Tulsa’s elected leadership. Governor Stitt has had numerous conversations with Mayor Nichols in recent weeks urging the city to gain control of the situation, but progress has fallen short of Tulsa residents’ expectations.
“Tulsa is a beautiful city. I lived there for years. But today, everybody can see the disaster it’s turning into— homeless people on every corner, trash piling up, and Oklahoma families are being forced to live in fear,” said Governor Stitt. “This is the city’s job, but Mayor Nichols and Tulsa leadership haven’t met the level of action needed to keep neighborhoods safe. Oklahoma is going to step in to do our part and clean it up. Once we’ve done so, it’ll be on the City to keep Tulsa clean and safe. If they refuse, then we’ll be forced to take further action to protect Tulsans.”
Within the last 24 hours, OHP began issuing warnings to homeless individuals and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) began posting notices at encampments on state property to vacate and cease occupation, in accordance with 64 O.S. § 1097. These camps are often located along highway rights-of-way or beneath overpasses, creating severe hazard for the public and homeless individuals alike. ODOT will also lead remediation, clearing, and clean-up efforts.
OHP and ODOT are working with various agencies who are committed to helping individuals transition to safer, alternative living arrangements. If OHP encounters illegal immigrants during the operation, they will be turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation proceedings. Under the Governor’s direction, State Troopers are offering homeless individuals two clear options:
- A ride to a treatment or housing facility.
- A ride to jail and face prosecution if they refuse help and continue breaking the law.
Chair of the Tulsa Regional Chamber of Commerce, Bill Knight voiced support for the Governor’s action: "Tulsa’s business community supports leadership that prioritizes the safety of those who live and work within our city and region. We appreciate the governor’s actions to enforce the laws and bolster Tulsa's pursuit to enhance quality of life. This initiative complements the ongoing efforts by various Tulsa entities, reinforcing our collective commitment to addressing complex issues like homelessness and public safety.”
