Robert DeWayne Gifford, Theft Concerning Programs Receiving Federal…

ROBERT DEWAYNE GIFFORD, a 62-year-old resident of Mannford, Oklahoma, has entered a guilty plea in federal court today for charges related to THEFT OR BRIBERY CONCERNING PROGRAMS RECEIVING FEDERAL FUNDS. The defendant stands accused of accepting $5,000 or more from individuals authorized to act on behalf of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) with intent to influence CNO officials in transactions.

The plea was entered as part of a broader investigation involving both the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division. The allegations spanned from January 2010 to September 2010, during which Giard is said to have influenced agents and officers of the CNO through monetary incentives.

Giard’s case also includes charges of MONEY LAUNDERING, stemming from a period between April 9, 2010, and May 5, 2010. During this time, he attempted to engage in monetary transactions exceeding $10,000 with financial institutions, property traced to unlawful activities.

The severity of the offense is not lost on federal authorities: each charge carries a statutory range of ten years imprisonment and a fine up to $250,000. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing under the presideence of Magistrate Judge Kimberly E. West.

Representing the United States were First Assistant U.S. Attorney Doug Horn and Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Wilson. This case underscores the ongoing battle against corruption and financial crimes in federal programs, emphasizing the government’s commitment to justice.