A dangerous job

The death of an Oklahoma probation and parole officer shines a light on an often-overlooked part of the corrections process. Jeff McCoy, 32, of Norman was shot and killed May 18 in Midwest City while trying to visit an offender on pre-release supervision. Another man who lived at the residence confronted McCoy and allegedly shot him in the head during a fight. The shooting has led to calls to better equip parole officers, who are issued radios that aren’t tied to any law enforcement frequency. One former longtime parole officer suggests giving these men and women Tasers in addition to their sidearms. A bill approved this year will require nine months of supervision for all inmates released from prison, which will strain an already-burdened workforce if adequate funding isn’t provided. We offer our thanks to McCoy for his service. He leaves a wife and two young children. Donations to memorial fund in McCoy’s honor can be made through BancFirst in Norman.

Above: Jeff McCoy (Photo provided)

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