Investigation Going Deeper Into Tulsa Public Schools Athletic Dept

The criminal investigation into the Tulsa Public Schools Athletic Department expands beyond the initial allegation of cyber-crimes.

The ongoing investigation reportedly started after three employees, including the district’s athletic director Stephanie Spring, admitted to accessing another employee’s emails.

A statement from TPS says the focus of the investigation has expanded to allegations of embezzlement and misappropriation of funds. (Read the entire statement below.)

Tulsa Public Schools confirms there is a lengthy internal investigation and it may continue for a period of time.

The Tulsa County District Attorney Tim Harris says he is asking that once the Tulsa Public Schools Police Department has completed the investigative report that it be sent to the Tulsa Police Department’s financial crimes division to have a second set of eyes on the report before its handed over to his office.

Harris says his office takes this issue and the possibility of misuse or embezzled taxpayer’s dollars seriously but adds a finanical investigation is time consuming and involves following the money or paper trial.

Harris says despite the public and media wanting answers, the investigation will take some time.

 Statement from Tulsa Public Schools regarding athletic department criminal investigation:
“In response to recent inquiries and reports in the media, TPS can confirm that it has been conducting an ongoing internal investigation of activities within the Athletic Department. The focus of the investigation is related to allegations of embezzlement and misappropriation of funds. Given the complexity of the subject matter and the commitment to conduct a thorough comprehensive investigation, the investigation may continue for an extended period of time. Upon completion of the investigation the results will be presented to the District Attorney for review and analysis. At this time TPS is unable to provide any additional comment or information related to specific details of the ongoing investigation.”