Cleveland County Sheriff pleads no contest to embezzlement, resigns from office

OKLAHOMA CITY (April 27, 2026) – Cleveland County Sheriff Donald Amason pleaded no contest today to one felony count of embezzlement, stemming from a recent indictment brought by the Multi-County Grand Jury. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Amason has agreed to resign from office effective immediately, pay $10,000 in restitution, accept a five-year deferred sentence and surrender his CLEET card.

Amason was charged with moving between $2,500 and $15,000 from his campaign account to himself and others on multiple occasions, violating the ethical rules that govern use of campaign funds. The transfers occurred between May 2020 and July 2025. 

Attorney General Gentner Drummond said the resolution ensures accountability for misconduct in public office.

“Public officials are entrusted with taxpayer dollars and must be held to the highest standard,” Drummond said. “Sheriff Amason took an oath to enforce the law. He has neglected his duty and is no longer fit to serve the residents of Cleveland County.”