Oklahoma Attorney General Drummond Joins OSBI In Swadley's Scandal Investigation

After conversations between Oklahoma Attorney General Drummond and Oklahoma County District Attorney Vicki Behenna, the Office of the Attorney General will assume responsibility working with the OSBI in the Swadley's scandal.

AG Drummond made the announcement on Sunday.

“This case includes allegations of fraud involving millions of dollars in taxpayer funds,” Drummond said in a statement. “Beginning immediately, my office will join with the OSBI to thoroughly investigate this matter. The Office of Attorney General is the appropriate entity to determine if the findings merit prosecution and, if they do, to prosecute any wrongdoers. One of my top priorities in this office is to end the culture of corruption and scandal. Oklahomans deserve true accountability in government.”

Vicki Behenna has since directed the OSBI to disclose the investigation to the Office of the Attorney General.

The state canceled its contract with Swadley’s in April 2022 following allegations of fraudulent activity and improper bidding practices. During the same month, Tourism and Recreation Director Jerry Winchester resigned from the agency and the state filed suit against Swadley’s for breach of contract. In all, Swadley’s received $16.7 million from the state to renovate and operate restaurants at selected state parks. 

This is a developing story, stay tuned for updates.