Oklahoma County hosts warrant clearing event

OKLAHOMA COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR) - Charles Cox had a misdemeanor larceny warrant hanging over his head since 2018. 

“It was affecting my record a little bit,” said Cox. "I was a little scared because I didn't know what all it was going to affect and what all it would stop me from being able to achieve." 

But, he can breathe much easier now. At Oklahoma County’s warrant clearing event on Friday, the count was dismissed. 

“It’s a big relief, for sure,” said Cox. 

Cox’s one of many who took advantage of the opportunity for people with low level offenses like outstanding fees, missed court dates and misdemeanor warrants. With the help of county judges, court clerk staff and attorneys folks were able to pay fines, set up payment plans, or reschedule court dates without the risk of being arrested.

"This gives them an ability to get back on their feet and be a productive member of society,” said Brigitte Biffle, the Chief Public Defender of Oklahoma County. 

Biffle added that the event also helps lower the Oklahoma County Jail’s population. 

“Obviously, the conditions at the jail weren't great and police resources are better devoted to helping victims of crimes and things like that,” said Biffle. “I know back in January when we started the events, our jail population was actually lower than Tulsa County's… So it's really been helpful." 

More warrant clearing events are planned for next year.