The Oklahoma Department of Corrections announced that it will rename the Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility to the Red Rock Correctional Center upon finalizing the purchase and assuming operations of the state’s last remaining privately-operated facility on July 25.

ODOC Director Steven Harpe said the new name signals a new chapter for the facility, its staff and the inmates housed there.

“This is more than a name change,” Harpe said. “It represents a long-term investment in corrections in southwest Oklahoma and reflects our vision to lead the nation in correctional innovation. Red Rock is a fresh start – anchored in community and stakeholder partnership, protecting public safety and transforming lives of those in our care.”

ODOC plans to implement expanded vocational and educational opportunities in the coming months and make other necessary changes to ensure quality care for those housed in Lawton.

The GEO Group currently employs more than 400 people at LCF, and those who passed ODOC’s background check were offered employment with the state. Special training is being conducted to familiarize staff with the agency’s protocols and processes. However, some processes will remain consistent with the GEO Group’s current practices to ensure a smooth transition.

“We look forward to welcoming the employees onto the ODOC team as we make this transition,” said ODOC Chief of Operations Jason Sparks.

LCF, located in Comanche County, houses medium- and maximum- security male inmates and the state’s only protective custody unit. With a capacity of over 2,600, it is the agency’s largest facility. Originally opening in 1998, it is the state’s newest facility.

With the addition of LCF, ODOC expands its footprint across the state, operating 23 institutions and community corrections centers (21 male, two female). ODOC now only utilizes the services of one contracted halfway house.