Source: Office of United States Attorneys
OKLAHOMA CITY – DEBRA KAYE LYONS, 65, of Yukon, has pleaded guilty to federal program theft, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On October 21, 2024, Lyons was charged by Amended Information with federal program theft. From 2007 to January 2023, Lyons worked for an Oklahoma City nonprofit organization receiving federal funds, where she coordinated the purchase of cell phones and cell phone plans for the nonprofit. According to the Amended Information, from January 13, 2022, through January 13, 2023, through her role with the nonprofit, Lyons used the nonprofit’s corporate account to purchase cell phones, which she then resold for personal financial gain. The Amended Information alleges that the illegally purchased and stolen cell phones led to a loss of at least $5,000 for the nonprofit.
At the sentencing hearing on November 12, 2024, Lyons pleaded guilty, and admitted she stole property from the nonprofit by using its corporate account to purchase cell phones, which she then resold for her own personal financial gain. At sentencing, Lyons faces up to 10 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is the result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia E. Barry is prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.