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A convicted felon who cannot legally hold elected office in Oklahoma is currently serving as city manager of Pawhuska, and today he faces embezzlement charges in Kay County court. Jerry Eubanks has a criminal history that includes prison time in Arkansas, yet somehow convinced Pawhuska city council members to grant him municipal power. The district attorney's phone is ringing as citizens demand accountability.
The Equipment Theft Scheme That Crossed City Lines
Eubanks allegedly orchestrated an elaborate theft involving tens of thousands of dollars in municipal equipment. According to the charges, while working as city manager in one Oklahoma town, Eubanks convinced officials to purchase expensive equipment the city didn't need. When he left for a new city manager position, he took that equipment with him.
But the scheme didn't end there. Eubanks then allegedly sold the stolen equipment to his new employer, convincing them they needed to purchase it at an inflated price. The equipment they bought was the same machinery he had stolen from his previous job. His son reportedly facilitated the sale, making it what investigators call "a family affair."
Multiple Felony Cases Across Two Counties
Today's court appearance in Kay County is just the beginning. Eubanks faces additional charges in Major County related to his activities in other municipalities. The cases involve allegations of kickback schemes and embezzlement patterns that span multiple Oklahoma towns. His wife is also reportedly implicated in the alleged criminal activities.
Despite these pending felony charges, Pawhuska city council recently approved a $25,000 bonus for Eubanks. When questioned about the justification for the bonus, council members could not provide a clear explanation for the payment to their embattled city manager.
The Pawhuska Connection and Council Controversy
Eubanks was initially let go from Pawhuska but was brought back specifically to help terminate a police chief that certain council members opposed. Sources suggest these same council members who support Eubanks may have their own ethical issues. The city manager's return coincided with increased tensions and what observers describe as suspicious decision-making by the council majority.
Local residents have registered to run for city council in February elections, potentially changing the composition of the body that hired and continues to support Eubanks. Voter registration for the municipal election remains open until mid-January.
Citizens Pressure District Attorney for No Deal
Concerned citizens are flooding the Kay County District Attorney's office with calls demanding Eubanks face full consequences. They specifically want to prevent what they call a "sweetheart deal" that would allow him to continue in municipal employment. Callers are requesting that any plea agreement include conditions prohibiting Eubanks from holding government positions during probation.
The pressure campaign reflects broader frustration with what residents see as a pattern of corruption and cronyism. District Attorney Brian Hermanson faces political pressure as elected officials typically prefer to avoid negative publicity related to lenient treatment of public corruption cases.
What Happened in That Courtroom
The hearing was scheduled for 1:30 PM in Kay County, but the outcome remains unclear. Whether Eubanks received the accountability citizens demanded or negotiated a favorable plea deal could determine his future in municipal government. The proceedings may also reveal additional details about the scope of the alleged embezzlement scheme and potential co-conspirators.
Watch the full investigation and courthouse coverage to see what really happened when Jerry Eubanks faced the judge.
