OKLAHOMA CITY – Attorney General Gentner Drummond on Monday answered a request for assistance from the City of Okemah. In an unprecedented move, agents from his office are now standing in for Okemah’s police department after five officers, including the police chief, were terminated or resigned.

Drummond, the state’s Chief Law Officer, responded to the city’s request by deploying agents to provide policing services for Okemah residents. The agents will maintain law enforcement operations until the city can hire sufficient personnel to restore its police force to full capacity.

“I am not afraid to make such a move if it means law and order is maintained in Okemah. When local communities face challenges that threaten public safety, it is our responsibility to ensure that law-abiding citizens remain protected,” Drummond said. “My office will maintain a strong law enforcement presence in Okemah for as long as necessary, but my agents are approaching their work with professionalism and compassion.”

The Attorney General’s Office will work closely with city officials to transition back to local control.