In December, William Russell, Director of Accreditation and Compliance for the Okmulgee County Criminal Justice Authority (OCCJA), traveled to New Orleans to serve as an auditor for the American Correctional Association during an on-site accreditation audit at the Orleans Criminal Justice Center. His selection to serve in this role highlights his commitment to continuous improvement in detention operations and OCCJA’s increasing involvement in accreditation leadership.

As a member of the ACA audit team, Russell participated in a comprehensive review of facility operations, including security procedures, policy documentation, staff interviews, and housing unit inspections. The audit evaluated adherence to nationally recognized correctional standards that emphasize safety, accountability, and professional operations throughout all levels of detention management.

During the visit, the Orleans Criminal Justice Center publicly recognized the ACA audit team, including Russell, through a post on the facility’s official Facebook page. The recognition highlighted the importance of the accreditation process and underscored the value of experienced professionals contributing to transparent and objective evaluations. Russell’s participation in this national- level audit directly benefits OCCJA by expanding internal expertise and reinforcing the OCCJA’s commitment to continuous growth. His firsthand exposure to the accreditation review process strengthens OCCJA’s compliance framework, enhances audit readiness and supports ongoing alignment between policy, practice, and national standards.

The OCCJA is ACA-accredited, a distinction that reflects the OCCJA’s commitment to professional detention management. Having senior leadership actively participate as ACA auditors further strengthens OCCJA’s accreditation posture and reinforces a culture that values preparation, accountability and forward progress.

Russell expressed appreciation to Executive Director Shannon T. Clark, who also serves as an ACA Commissioner on Accreditation for Adult Detention, for his leadership and continued support in encouraging professional development opportunities that extend beyond the facility. OCCJA actively promotes staff growth at all levels, recognizing that individual advancement, supported by nationally engaged leadership, strengthens the organization as a whole and supports long-term operational success.

The audit at the Orleans Criminal Justice Center concluded successfully, with the Orleans Parish Sheriff ’s Office meeting all 145 applicable ACA accreditation standards. While all requirements have been satisfied, final accreditation will be formally granted following presentation of the auditors’ findings to the full ACA Commission in February 2026.

Russell’s service as an ACA auditor reflects OCCJA’s continued investment in national standards and professional development, demonstrating how leadership growth and organizational progress move forward together.