The Okmulgee County Specialty Court has dedicated a memorial plaque in honor of Judge Duane Woodliff, the founding judge of the program, as a tribute to his enduring legacy of compassion, service, and justice. As the court marks its twentieth anniversary, this heartfelt recognition comes in the wake of Judge Woodliff ’s passing on Oct. 1, 2024, a loss deeply felt by the community he served.
The Okmulgee County Specialty Court has dedicated a memorial plaque in honor of Judge Duane Woodliff, the founding judge of the program, as a tribute to his enduring legacy of compassion, service, and justice. As the court marks its twentieth anniversary, this heartfelt recognition comes in the wake of Judge Woodliff ’s passing on Oct. 1, 2024, a loss deeply felt by the community he served.
Judge Woodliff ’s vision and unwavering dedication to rehabilitation and justice led to the establishment of the Okmulgee County Drug Court in 2004. Recognizing the need to address addiction and mental health issues within the justice system, he worked alongside then-District Attorney Tom Giulioli to implement a program modeled after the emerging Drug Court system nationwide. His efforts soon expanded to include the Anna McBride Mental Health Court in 2008 and the Family Drug Court in 2009. His pioneering work provided countless individuals with a second chance, an opportunity to overcome struggles with addiction and mental health challenges while receiving the support and guidance needed to turn their lives around.
Under Judge Woodliff ’s leadership, the Specialty Courts became a beacon of hope for many. Over the past two decades, more than 500 participants have passed through these programs, finding the strength and resources to rebuild their lives. He firmly believed in people’s ability to recover, and his dedication to their success was evident in every aspect of his work. His compassionate approach to justice fostered a culture of support, accountability, and rehabilitation that continues to shape the Specialty Court’s mission today. The dedication ceremony for the memorial plaque was attended by current Specialty Court Judge Cynthia Pickering, Specialty Court Coordinator Lisa Laughlin, court support staff, and representatives from CREOKS Behavioral Health Services. Together, they reaffirmed their commitment to carrying forward Judge Woodliff ’s vision, ensuring that his legacy of service remains alive in the court’s continued work.
With the support of local elected officials, the Specialty Court continues to provide participants with counseling, employment assistance, supervision, and accountability. Judge Woodliff ’s compassionate approach to justice lives on through the hard work of the court staff and the unwavering support of the community.
As the plaque now stands in his honor, it serves as a reminder of a man who dedicated his life to serving and uplifting those in need. Judge Duane Woodliff ’s legacy will continue to shine through every life changed, every family restored, and every individual given a second chance through the Specialty Court system he so passionately built.