Ex-Corrections Chief Faces Scrutiny Over AI Contract

AI Prison Contract Raises Ethical Concerns

Earlier this year, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections entered a $1 million contract with LEO Technologies, a company specializing in AI-based phone monitoring for prison calls. The system uses artificial intelligence to detect keywords, threats, and coded messages during inmate conversations.

Director Resigns, Then Joins Vendor

Months after finalizing the deal, former Corrections Director Steven Harpe resigned and soon after accepted employment with LEO Technologies. The move sparked questions about potential conflicts of interest and possible violations of Oklahoma’s one-year cooling-off rule for state officials.

That statute bars government employees from taking jobs with companies they directly contracted with while in office.

Attorney General’s Office Declines to Comment

The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office has declined to say whether it will open a formal investigation. However, state watchdog groups and some lawmakers argue that the situation undermines public trust in government contracting.

Ethics experts emphasize that cooling-off laws exist to prevent officials from negotiating contracts that might later benefit them personally.

Technology and Transparency in Prison Systems

The deal aimed to improve prison safety and intercept gang-related calls, but critics worry that privacy concerns and potential misuse of data could outweigh the benefits.

The incident highlights broader debates about AI ethics in public institutions, especially as emerging technologies enter Oklahoma’s justice system.

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