Oklahoma Lawmakers Question Courthouse Security

Is the security at courthouses around the state enough? That's what some state leaders are asking.

If you've ever come down to the Oklahoma County Courthouse you may be familiar with security here. It’s very similar to the airport where your items go through an X-ray machine and you step through a metal detector. But our partners at the Journal Record spoke with number of state leaders and law enforcement who wonder if that is enough when it comes to public safety.

There was recent legislation which allows counties to charge a $10 whenever something is filed in court, which would go toward courthouse security. But some don't believe the money it would bring in each year is enough for more personnel and technology to improve security.

State Rep. Scott Biggs of Chickasha told the newspaper the recent attacks on police officers and shootings at courthouses should be a wake up call for counties to do more to protect people, and that each courthouse should only have one entrance for security screenings.

The article also points out the Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security gave $1.9 million in courthouse improvement grants to 74 counties.  Those grants were given out  after the department assessed each building.