Oklahoma Official Sentenced for $600,000 Fraud Scheme That Stole Funds From Tulsa Schools
A Tulsa school official’s calculated fraud scheme leaves the district reeling after he steals nearly $600K meant for students and staff. 🌐 #News #TulsaOK #Oklahoma #Crime
TULSA, OK – A former Oklahoma official from Tulsa Public Schools has been sentenced to nearly three years in federal prison for embezzling almost $600,000. Devin Darel Fletcher, 40, pleaded guilty to wire fraud after diverting funds meant for the district. The sentence was handed down on November 26, 2024, by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Oklahoma.
A Methodical Abuse of Trust
Fletcher’s actions were calculated and systematic, taking advantage of his position in the district. Employed by Tulsa Public Schools from August 2016 until his resignation in June 2022, Fletcher served as the Chief Learning and Talent Officer. In his role, he had significant authority, including overseeing human resources, educational performance, and approving expenditures for personnel and consultants.
Court documents revealed that Fletcher, who held a master’s degree in professional accounting, used his expertise to alter invoices, purchase orders, and other documents to steal money from the district. Over a period from August 2018 to March 2022, Fletcher’s co-conspirator received over $448,000 in fraudulent payments for fake services. Additionally, Fletcher personally took $137,000 during this time.
The Impact on Tulsa Public Schools
The financial damage caused by Fletcher’s actions went far beyond the figures on paper. U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson pointed out that the stolen money could have been used to fund teachers’ salaries, directly benefiting the students of Tulsa. “This money could have funded several teachers’ salaries, which would have directly benefited students,” Johnson said in a statement.
Fletcher’s role in the district made his betrayal of public trust particularly damaging. As Chief Learning and Talent Officer, he was in charge of critical functions that impacted both staff and students. His actions have raised concerns about transparency and accountability within public institutions.
Legal Consequences and Accountability
Fletcher was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $593,492.32. This restitution is intended to recover the funds stolen through the fraud scheme. The case also serves as a reminder that abuse of power for personal gain has serious consequences.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater emphasized the severity of the crime, saying, “The defendant betrayed the trust of the citizens of Tulsa and intentionally stole funds meant for the betterment of students.” He further stated that Fletcher’s sentence holds him accountable and sends a message about the unacceptable nature of such behavior in public service.
Fletcher has been allowed to remain on bond and will voluntarily surrender to prison at a later date.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Oklahoma
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