Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) is the largest law enforcement executive and administrative association in Oklahoma. Established in 1984, the OACP represents a diverse membership that includes federal, state, campus, municipal, county, tribal, and corporate security agencies. The association is dedicated to promoting excellence in law enforcement through professional development, ethical standards, technical support, and communication.

Mission and Vision

The OACP's mission is to advance the science and art of law enforcement administration, focusing on community policing, crime prevention, and the development of law enforcement practices and procedures. The association aims to foster cooperation and the exchange of information among law enforcement administrators throughout Oklahoma, encourage the enlistment and training of qualified individuals in the law enforcement profession, and advocate for legislation that enhances the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies.

Industry Significance

As the largest law enforcement executive and administrative association in Oklahoma, the OACP plays a pivotal role in shaping law enforcement policies, practices, and training within the state. Its diverse membership and comprehensive approach to law enforcement administration make it a significant entity in the criminal justice landscape of Oklahoma.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Professional Development: Providing training and educational opportunities to enhance the skills and knowledge of law enforcement professionals.

Ethical Standards: Promoting high standards of conduct and integrity within the law enforcement community.

Technical Support: Offering resources and assistance to law enforcement agencies to improve operational effectiveness.

Legislative Advocacy: Engaging in legislative processes to advocate for laws that protect citizens and support law enforcement efforts.

Areas of Specialization

Community Policing: Encouraging strategies that build positive relationships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.

Crime Prevention: Developing and implementing initiatives aimed at reducing crime rates and enhancing public safety.

Law Enforcement Cooperation: Facilitating collaboration among various law enforcement agencies to address crime and public safety issues effectively.

Key Technologies Utilized

While specific technological platforms are not detailed in the available information, the OACP likely employs various technologies to support its initiatives, including:

Training Platforms: Online learning management systems for professional development.

Communication Tools: Digital platforms for disseminating information and coordinating among members.

Data Analysis Tools: Software for analyzing crime statistics and law enforcement performance metrics.

Primary Markets and Conditions Targeted

The OACP primarily serves law enforcement agencies across Oklahoma, including:

Municipal Police Departments: Urban law enforcement agencies in cities and towns.

County Sheriff's Offices: Law enforcement agencies operating at the county level.

Tribal Police Departments: Law enforcement agencies serving Native American communities.

State Agencies: Statewide law enforcement bodies such as the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.

Federal Agencies: Federal law enforcement entities operating within Oklahoma.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization, the OACP's funding primarily comes from membership dues, event sponsorships, and training programs. Specific financial details, including total funds raised and recent funding rounds, are not publicly disclosed. The association utilizes its resources to support professional development programs, legislative advocacy, and operational support for its member agencies.

Pipeline Development

The OACP does not engage in product development or clinical trials. Its focus is on enhancing law enforcement practices through training, education, and policy advocacy.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

While specific proprietary technologies are not detailed, the OACP likely utilizes various platforms to support its operations, including:

Learning Management Systems (LMS): For delivering training and educational content to members.

Communication Platforms: To facilitate information sharing and coordination among member agencies.

Data Analytics Tools: For analyzing crime data and law enforcement performance metrics.

Significant Scientific Methods

The OACP employs evidence-based practices in its training and policy development, focusing on strategies that have been proven effective in enhancing law enforcement effectiveness and community safety.

Leadership Team

Executive Leadership

President: Chief James Smith, Lawton Police Department. Chief Smith has been recognized for his outstanding service and leadership, including being named the 2025 Large Agency Chief of the Year by the OACP.

1st Vice President: Chief J.D. Younger, Edmond Police Department.

2nd Vice President: Chief Todd Gibson, Moore Police Department.

3rd Vice President: Chief J.R. Kidney, Tecumseh Police Department.

Secretary/Treasurer: Chief Don Cluck, Tuttle Police Department.

Past President: Chief James Smith, Lawton Police Department.

Northeast Region Representative: Chief Leon Jones, Oklahoma State University Police Department. Chief Jones was elected to a two-year term as the northeast representative for the OACP in June 2023.

Southeast Region Representative: Chief Kevin Hearod, McAlester Police Department.

Northwest Region Representative: Chief Bryan Skaggs, Enid Police Department.

Southwest Region Representative: Chief Daimon Alexander, Chickasha Police Department.

Central Region Representative: Chief Russ Landon, The Village Police Department.

Tulsa Region Representative: Chief Todd Blish, Bixby Police Department.

Small and Rural Representative: Chief Don Hyde, Calera Police Department.

Tribal Representative: Chief Randy Wesley, Chickasaw Nation.

At-Large Representative: Chief Wade Gourley, Oklahoma City Police Department.

Parliamentarian: Chief Kelly Marshall, Choctaw Police Department.

Executive Director: Steve Whitlock.

Leadership Changes

In July 2022, Chief James Smith of the Lawton Police Department was named President of the OACP, succeeding Chief Don Sweger of the Guthrie Police Department.

Market Insights and Dynamics

The OACP operates within a collaborative environment, working alongside other law enforcement associations and agencies to enhance public safety and law enforcement effectiveness in Oklahoma. Its primary focus is on professional development, ethical standards, and legislative advocacy, distinguishing it from other organizations that may have different missions or scopes.

Competitor Analysis

While the OACP collaborates with various law enforcement entities, it does not have direct competitors in its specific role as a law enforcement executive and administrative association. Other organizations, such as the Oklahoma Sheriffs' Association, focus on different aspects of law enforcement and public safety, and may serve different member bases.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The OACP collaborates with various law enforcement agencies, governmental bodies, and community organizations to achieve its objectives. These partnerships enhance its capacity to provide training, advocate for effective legislation, and promote best practices in law enforcement.

Operational Insights

The OACP's strategic considerations include maintaining strong relationships with member agencies, staying informed about legislative developments, and continuously adapting its programs to meet the evolving needs of the law enforcement community in Oklahoma. Its collaborative approach and comprehensive focus on professional development and ethical standards provide it with distinct competitive advantages in the law enforcement sector.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The OACP is well-positioned to expand its training programs, enhance its legislative advocacy efforts, and strengthen its partnerships with other law enforcement agencies and community organizations. By leveraging its diverse membership and comprehensive approach, the OACP can continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of law enforcement in Oklahoma.