Three computer savvy inmates in Oklahoma’s Joseph Harp Correctional Center have created a data collection program that may save the state millions of dollars, say three state representatives. The program initially was developed to monitor inmates during chow time, The Oklahoman reports. By entering each inmate in a computer system as they receive their food, corrections employees hoped to catch prisoners who were getting back in line and receiving a second meal.
Oklahoma Corrections Department spokesman Jerry Massie said the program developed and maintained by inmates has been in place for nearly two years. He said that the program has the potential to be implemented in other state-run correctional facilities. Three legislators toured the facility Thursday to meet with corrections officials and the inmates themselves. Apparently one is serving time on a murder charge and at least one of the remaining two is incarcerated for a sex-related crime.