TULSA, Okla. — Tulsa Public Schools' former Chief Learning and Talent Officer Devin Fletcher pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud on Oct. 30.
"He's obviously remorseful of his actions and wants to right the ship," said Fletcher's attorney Brett Swab.
In September, Fletcher initially pleaded not guilty, and just over a month later, he changed his plea.
An investigation into Fletcher began in the summer of 2022 when an internal audit revealed around $17,000 in mismanaged funds. Fletcher resigned from his role around the same time.
In April, an independent audit identified around $364,000 in questionable contracts. The number continued to grow as investigations continued with a final number of $603,992.32.
In court Monday, Fletcher said, "I was responsible for taking money from the Foundation for Tulsa Public Schools and TPS that was not mine by making false invoices and having those invoices paid.”
"He's taking responsibility," said Swab. "He's standing there saying I'm the one that did it and he's going to be there for sentencing."
The case garnered more attention when State Superintendent Ryan Walters claimed the embezzled funds justified the calls for lowering or pulling the district's accreditation.
While TPS kept it's accreditation, it lost Superintendent Dr. Deborah Gist in the process.
At sentencing, Fletcher could face up to 20 years in prison. He could also face restitution or monetary penalties.
Fletcher will remain on bond pending sentencing. His attorney says he's working but wouldn't specific his place of employment.
Tulsa Public Schools is thankful for the excellent work of the United States Attorney’s Office and federal law enforcement in seeking justice for the students and families of our district. We recognize the defendant’s admission of responsibility in today’s guilty plea and await the important sentencing phase of the matter. The financial security of the district is of the utmost importance. The success of our justice system and the additional financial safeguards put in place by the district will undoubtedly deter any future financial misdealing.
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