About Us
The Office of the Corrections Ombuds provides opportunities for people impacted by incarceration to raise issues and resolve conflicts. We work to reduce harm in the Washington corrections system by negotiating outcomes, recommending positive change, and reporting individual and systemic concerns.
The OCO's History
The Office of the Corrections Ombuds (OCO) was created through Second Substitute Bill 1889 of 2018 regular session. It was signed into law by Governor Inslee on March 27, 2018. Our statutory authority and responsibilities are detailed in Chapter 43.06C RCW, and our rules are in Chapter 138-10 WAC and Chapter 138-12 WAC. The OCO is proud to be part of a national network of prison ombuds and oversight professionals.
A More Humane and Transparent Washington Corrections System
Throughout summer and fall of 2023, the OCO staff worked with Results Washington (now known as Your Washington) to develop a comprehensive three-year strategic plan. Our first task was to establish our mission, vision, and values.
2023-2026 OCO Strategic Plan
The OCO’s 2023-2026 strategic priorities focus on aligning corrections oversight, the Governor’s goals, and our agency strategic goals and initiatives. Our strategic plan is the foundation of our internal goals and priorities as an agency.
Public Communication & Education
Improve outreach, education, and access to OCO services.
Comprehensive Investigations
Deliver individual resolutions and publish systemic recommendations that achieve positive and persistent change.
Capacity Building
Strengthen internal OCO systems and processes to ensure continuity of quality services.
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OCO Continuous Improvement
2026 Strategic Planning
In Spring 2026, the OCO began working again with YourWA to develop our strategic plans for the next three years. We will be asking for input from the incarcerated population, family and friends, and our collaborative partners.