Oklahoma County Sheriff, lawmakers taking first steps for Olympic-sized security

Olympic-Sized Security Top of Mind

Security for major sports events in Oklahoma City is front and center for state lawmakers. Oklahoma City is poised to host canoeing events and softball games for the 2028 Summer Olympics and the Oklahoma County Sheriff wants to provide world-class security.

Proposed Senate Bill To Deputize Law Officers

Sheriff Tommie Johnson with the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office said on Thursday he needs the ability to bring in additional law officers to provide security at venues proposed to host Olympics events such as OKC Riversport and still maintain daily patrols.

“As you know these high-profile events are often time targets for mischief if you would,” said Republican Senator Darrell Weaver.

For that reason, Johnson is working with lawmakers to pass Senate Bill 523.

“What we’re gonna have to do is propose legislation that will allow me to deputize other deputies, reserve deputies from across the state,” said Johnson, Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office.

Johnson said currently his agency combined with the Oklahoma City Police Department could not provide the manpower needed to maintain security at Riversport and Devon Park.

“This is a planned event so we need a model and a mode going forward that allows us to bring people in for planned, large-scale events,” said Johnson.

Johnson believes passing this bill will show Oklahoma City is prepared to shine on the world stage.

“To do that we need to make sure we have everything in place,” said Johnson.

What's Next

The bill will move on to the House Committee and then to the Senate and House floors for votes. Johnson believes SB 523 will get full support.

The Los Angeles City Council still has to approve Oklahoma City to host the events. Mayor David Holt said there was no timeline for when that vote would happen.