OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) announced their decision to part ways with the Oklahoma Attorney General as the department's legal counsel in a federal lawsuit over inmates' access to mental health care in county jails across the state. In a termination letter addressed to Drummond on Tuesday, ODMHSAS Commissioner Allie Friesen says Drummond would not consult with her on the case, leading to a "fundamental impasse." Friesen goes on to say Drummond has "proceeded in the Briggs litigation as if [he is] both Commissioner and counsel to the Commissioner." PREVIOUS COVERAGE: AG Drummond addresses Gov. Stitt’s push to settle proposed lawsuit Friesen also issued a statement following the termination letter. We have decided to cease being represented by the Attorney General in the Briggs et al v. Friesen Consent Decree lawsuit regarding jail-based competency services.  This is the best step to ensure justice for all Oklahomans. The Consent Decree, as currently written and approved by the Attorney General, would cease competency treatment in 75 of 77 counties, stopping essential treatment for people already receiving care as well as delaying justice for victims in these criminal cases. This is simply unacceptable.  When Oklahomans are unable to receive timely treatment, their conditions can worsen. Drummond’s demands would deny care to countless individuals who rely on us. The longer we delay, the harder it becomes for them to recover.   The Attorney General’s recent public comments demonstrate clear contempt for ODMHSAS and a refusal to operate in the best interests of the patients we serve. By seeking new representation, we can better ensure Oklahomans receive the care they need in all 77 counties. ODMHSAS Commissioner Allie Friesen News 4 reached out to the Attorney General's Office on Tuesday afternoon asking for Drummond's reaction to Friesen's letter, and received the following response. My client is the State of Oklahoma, not the government agency that put us in this indefensible position. With all due respect to the commissioner, she cannot fire me — just as she did not hire me. My responsibility is to the people of our state. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond