COWETA, Okla. — The Coweta Police Department has completed its investigation after several citizens raised concerns regarding the actions of City leaders.
The investigation was opened on May 4, examining compliance with the Oklahoma Records Act, misuse of public office, ethic conduct transparency and economic development activity and other concerns raised by the public.
Regarding the allegations of Open Records Act violations, police said records requested were fulfilled appropriately and that the City’s responses were prompt and reasonable.
The investigation also reviewed concerns related to economic development, non-disclosure agreements, communications with private developers and Project Atlas. Police said investigators found that activities examined were within the normal scope of municipal administration functions.
There was also an allegation regarding violations of the Open Records Meeting Act. Police said the allegation was determined to be inconclusive. While investigators identified concerns regarding certain procedures, no evidence was found of criminal intent.
Concerns around the City’s firework contract procurement process were also reviewed. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation determined that the contract fell below the statutory thresholds that required formal competitive bidding procedures. The review found no evidence that any bidder received unlawful competitive advantage or that Oklahoma law was violated.
The investigation determined that while some concerns involving issues with public perception, policy discussions or transparency expectations do exist, the evidence gathered did not meet the threshold for criminal violations, police said.
The Coweta Police Department said it remains committed to transparency, accountability and public trust. Any new credible evidence brought forward will be evaluated and investigated as appropriate.
On Tuesday, Police Chief Mike Bell will present the investigation findings to the Coweta City Council and the public during a special council meeting at 6 p.m. at Coweta City Hall. You can read the full meeting agenda along with supporting documentation by clicking here.
The Coweta Police Department also shared the following document of answers to frequently asked questions:
