If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Oklahoma, you may have heard the term community sentencing program come up during discussions with your attorney or in court. But what does community sentencing really mean—and how can it affect the outcome of your case?
In this article, we’ll break down what community sentencing is, who qualifies, and how it plays a crucial role in Oklahoma’s criminal justice system.
What Is Community Sentencing?
A community sentencing program is an alternative to traditional incarceration. Instead of going to prison or jail, eligible defendants are sentenced to a structured program within the community that includes supervision, treatment, and rehabilitation services.
The goal of community sentencing is twofold:
- To protect public safety, and
- To reduce incarceration by addressing the root causes of criminal behavior, such as substance abuse or mental health issues.
Oklahoma’s community sentencing program is governed by the Oklahoma Community Sentencing Act and is overseen by the Department of Corrections in partnership with local judicial districts.
Who Qualifies for Alternative Sentencing?
The community sentencing program is not available for all offenses or offenders. To qualify, a defendant must:
- Be convicted of a non-violent felony under Oklahoma law,
- Be assessed as low to moderate risk for violence, but high need in areas like substance abuse, mental health, or employment, and
- Agree to comply with the conditions of the community sentencing plan.
Some violent crimes, sex offenses, and certain repeat offenses are not eligible.
Before sentencing, a defendant undergoes an assessment to determine their risk level and treatment needs. If eligible, the court will work with community sentencing staff to create a personalized sentencing plan.
What Does a Community Sentencing Plan Involve?
A community sentence can include a combination of the following:
- Substance abuse treatment
- Mental health counseling
- Employment training and job placement
- Education programs
- Community service
- Electronic monitoring or curfew
- Regular check-ins with a supervising officer
The plan is tailored to address the individual’s specific risks and needs, with the goal of preventing future criminal behavior.
How Is It Different from Regular Probation?
While community sentencing and probation may look similar on the surface, there are key differences:
- Community sentencing program is structured and treatment-focused, often involving more intensive services than standard probation.
- It is designed for high-need individuals, especially those struggling with addiction or mental health.
- Violating a community sentencing plan can still result in revocation and incarceration, but courts may give multiple opportunities to get back on track, depending on the circumstances.
Why Does Oklahoma Use Community Sentencing?
Oklahoma has one of the highest incarceration rates in the country. Community sentencing helps reduce the prison population by providing meaningful alternatives for non-violent offenders.
It’s also a smart investment. Studies have shown that community sentencing programs are more effective at reducing recidivism than prison time alone—especially when underlying issues like addiction or trauma are addressed.
Is Community Sentencing Right for Your Case?
If you or someone you care about is facing a non-violent felony charge in Oklahoma, community sentencing may be an option worth exploring. It’s not just about avoiding prison—it’s about getting help, making changes, and having the opportunity to rebuild your life.
At Tulsa Criminal Lawyers Law Firm, our attorneys have helped many clients navigate the criminal justice system and secure alternative sentencing options like community sentencing. To get a free consultation with a criminal attorney at Tulsa Criminal Lawyers Law Firm, call us at 918-416-0358, or you can ask an online legal question here.