State lawmaker requests interim study on OSBI leadership amid scandals

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — A state representative will request an interim study on complaints against leadership at the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.

State Rep. Bobby Cleveland announced Thursday he will request the study following scandals at the state's top law enforcement agency. The scandals began in late January when dozens of OSBI employees signed a multiple page complaint to the commission that oversees the agency. The complaints covered concerns about everything from some working conditions to problems with the agency's leadership.

“It’s clear that this agency is not running smoothly,” Cleveland said. "It appears Florence knowingly allowed staff to continue working in a Lawton office that tested positive for toxic mold and sickened several employees.”

Shortly after the commission failed to take action on those complaints, some employees said administrators, including agency director Stan Florence engaged in retaliation for signing onto the letter.

Friday is the deadline for interim study requests. The topics will be announced no later than July 7 and the studies will be held from August through October.

"We need straight answers from the director, and I fully intend to ensure the agency runs smoothly from here on out,” Cleveland said.

FOX 25 has been following the story of mold in the building for several months. A May investigation detailed how OSBI administrators provided information to commissioners that was contrary to what their own internal records showed about the condition of the building and safety of employees.

Cleveland called for firings amid the scandals during an interview with FOX 25 Wednesday.