On October 19, 2025, Food Service Specialist IV Billy Ferrell of the Northeast Oklahoma Community Corrections Center suffered a life-altering tragedy. Billy, along with his family, including his four-year-old daughter, lost their home and all personal belongings in a catastrophic fire. A complete fire report has been filed, and the severity of the damage left the family with nothing to salvage.

The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) was contacted by Lt. Kristy Sexton and Debbie Moore, who submitted the referral on behalf of Billy and his family. Upon review, CPOF immediately approved catastrophic assistance to support the Ferrell family during this unimaginable hardship. A check was sent to Debbie Moore for presentation to the family.

On Monday, CPOF representatives and facility leadership came together at the Northeast Oklahoma Community Corrections Center to formally present the catastrophic assistance. Pictured left to right in the presentation are:

Deputy Warden Ryan Kinsey, Warden Derrick Yazel, Food Service Specialist IV Billy Ferrell, and Debbie Moore.

CPOF extends our heartfelt support to Billy and his family as they begin the long process of rebuilding their lives. Moments like this reflect the core of our mission—Taking Care of Our Own—and we are grateful to the staff members who stepped forward to ensure the Ferrell family received help when they needed it most.

If you would like to support CPOF’s catastrophic assistance efforts or learn more about how we aid correctional staff and their families during crisis, please visit our website or contact our office.