Cleveland Co. Sheriff Audit Complete: Sheriff Chris Amason's response

A long-awaited investigative audit of the Cleveland County Sheriff's Office finances has been completed and reviewed by Sheriff Chris Amason.

The findings were not immediately released to the public, but upon his reviewal of the findings Amason issued a statement to News 9 that reads:

“I appreciate the diligent work of State Auditor Cindy Byrd and her team in delivering a comprehensive and well-documented report. Their professionalism and thoroughness confirm what we have consistently stood by—facts matter. This balanced report brings overdue clarity and puts to rest the speculation surrounding our office.

We have never shied away from scrutiny, because we operate on solid ground. Oversight from the State Auditor is not only welcomed—it’s essential to reinforcing the public trust we work daily to uphold. Transparency isn’t an obligation for this office; it’s our operating standard.

The findings speak for themselves, and we view this report as a valuable opportunity to move forward with confidence, purpose, and the continued support of the people we serve.”

In 2024, the Board of Cleveland County Commissioners, amid an ongoing budget battle with the sheriff, sent a letter to the Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector requesting a special audit of Amason's budget for fiscal years 2021 through 2024. Commissioners diverted $3.2 million to the sheriff’s office to cover outstanding bills and payroll in FY 2024.

The first part of the audit, published in June, did not draw any conclusions. The partial reports indicated the sheriff’s office collected $16.8 million between July 2023 and February 2024; disagreements persisted regarding the accurate accounting of funds.

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The release of the audit follows more than a year of public tension between Amason and county leaders. It also comes in the wake of several high-profile incidents at the Cleveland County Detention Center, including a rise in inmate deaths and ongoing staffing shortages under Amason's leadership.

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