Longtime District 9 District Attorney Laura Austin Thomas announced she will retire April 30, bringing an end to a 42-year career in prosecution and public safety.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve my communities,” Thomas said. “I remain deeply grateful for the trust placed in me over the years and proud of the work we’ve accomplished together.”
Thomas, who has served three terms as district attorney for Logan and Payne counties, said she is ready to begin a new chapter focused on family and personal goals.
Her tenure has been marked by several major initiatives, including the creation of a diversion program for non-violent offenders and the full modernization of her offices into a paperless system. Under her leadership, more than 40 years of records were digitized, with over 71,000 pounds of documents scanned and securely destroyed. The office also passed every biennial State Auditor examination with no findings.
Thomas said her proudest achievement is the creation of the About Face Women’s Offender Program, a residential program in Stillwater designed to help non-violent female offenders rebuild their lives.
“This program fulfills a lifelong professional goal of mine and has proven to us that this can change women’s lives for the betterment of themselves and society,” Thomas said. “We built it to prevent recidivism by providing the structures and opportunities these women have never had before—and it has been successful.”
The 18-month program provides substance abuse treatment, counseling, and job training, requiring participants to complete a career tech program. The first class of participants is set to graduate in May with certifications and job offers in the workforce.
Thomas credited her staff for the success of the office.
“This is and was possible because my offices are staffed with committed, dedicated, and talented employees who give their all to the public we serve,” she said.
In addition to her work locally, Thomas has served on several statewide boards and committees, including the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board and groups focused on human trafficking and legislative policy.
As she prepares to retire, Thomas said she is looking forward to spending more time with her growing family.
“One of my grandchildren is expected any day now, and I want to be immersed more with them as they grow and create lasting memories,” she said. “I’m also going to be working on a master flower, rose, vegetable, and fruit garden and digging in the dirt with my little ones. Thank you for allowing me to serve you.”
Be the first to comment on "District Attorney Laura Austin Thomas announces retirement after 42 years"