The Tulsa State Fair offers all kinds of fun for families everywhere. But for juveniles who decide to break the law, quick justice awaits right at the fairgrounds.
Just like the rides and the crazy food, Juvenile Court has become a staple at the fair. One judge says it's a win-win for not just the sheriff's department, but for families of offenders as well.
It looks like a normal room, but during the fair, this trailer becomes a bonafide courtroom.
“By golly, it is. You can hold court anywhere,” said Tulsa County Judge Bill Hiddle.
Hiddle hears some serious cases in his day-to-day job. But at the fair, he's getting back to his roots and presiding in a court that means a lot to the community.
“Can you imagine me holding court at the fair? It's a little different,” said Hiddle.
Located right by the Sheriff's Department Headquarters, Juvenile Court sees kids who commit crimes like stealing and selling drugs. Judge Hiddle is one of three who hands down sentences.
“What they argue about is not helping the child, because by law, that's the goal,” he said.
The juveniles are taken before a judge and then either released to their parents or taken to jail depending on the offense. More often than not, it's the simplest sentence that hits the hardest.
“If they're brought in, I find probable cause, they're told they can't come back to the fair,” Hiddle said. “And to the juvenile, that's a big deal, not coming back to the fair.”
For kids at the fair who make a mistake, justice is swift.
“Here, it's instantaneous. So it's a win-win for the court and the Sheriff's Office,” he said.
Just like the world outside of the fair, offenders are charged with real crimes and will be scheduled to appear later in a permanent court of law.
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