OKLAHOMA FORENSIC CENTER PROJECT WINS GOVERNOR’S AWARD

A project designed by a team at the Oklahoma Forensic Center in Vinita, titled the “Competency Restoration Treatment Program,” received a “Governor’s Commendation” May 5.

The award was presented at “Quality Oklahoma Team Day 2005,” an event held annually at the state capitol to honor state agencies that develop money-saving projects.

Projects receiving the honor are those that display results, innovation and use quality-management techniques resulting in taxpayer savings.

The OFC project involved restoring people with mental illness to “competency” to stand trial.

The program included staff development, systematized treatment in “mock courtrooms,” and measurable outcomes.

OFC Executive Director William Burkett said the program resulted in “improvements in every area of competency treatment according to both defendants and staff.”

In addition to Burkett, OFC project team members included Shawn Roberson, Ph.D.; Norene Gay, Ph.D.; Rachele Floyd, Psy.D.; Samina Christopher, Ph.D.; Peter Rausch, Ph.D.; and Julia Cunningham, Psy.D.

# # #