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Two officers with the Okmulgee County Criminal Justice Authority were recognized during Thursday’s meeting of the board.

Executive Director and Chief of Law Enforcement Officer Director Shannon Clark, Deputy Executive Director Christopher Cook and Director of Operations Leighton McComas, presented an award to Tyler Logan.

According to Clark, on Oct. 4, during lunch service at the jail facility, an inmate began to choke due to food lodged in his throat.

“Officer Logan noticed the inmate in distress,” Clark said. As the inmate gave non-verbal signs that he was choking, Officer Logan assisted the man by giving the Heimlich Maneuver. After three thrusts, the object was dislodged from the man’s throat.

“With deep pride, we recognize Detention Officer Logan,” Clark said. He added that if Logan had not noticed what was taking place, it would have been detrimental to the inmate.

“We certainly want to recognize you not only in front of the board, but also Okmulgee as a whole,” he said.

A Life-Saving Award, along with a copy of the letter to be placed in Logan’s file, along with a physical award, was presented to Officer Logan.

The agency also announced the promotion of Mary Curtis, from Sergeant to Captain for the OCCJA.

“As acting captain for the past 30 years, you have shown a tremendous amount of commitment dedication and leadership,” Clark read. “Your work and effort has enhanced the atmosphere within the facility and unite leadership within your peer group and our organization.”

Captain Clark is almost a member of the Army National Guard and was recently deployed to Louisiana during the hurricanes. She has worked for OCCJA for over three years.

Officer Tyler has been with the agency for about a year and a half.

During the meeting of the OCCJA board, the members approved several contract for services for the facility.