Former commissioner formally arraigned on felony embezzlement

Former Logan County Commissioner Kody Ellis was formally arraigned inside a courtroom Monday afternoon on one count of embezzlement.

An arrest warrant was issued Friday for the former District 2 Commissioner as part of an investigation of misused public money by fueling his personal vehicle with gasoline between July 1, 2021, through July 31, 2022.

Guthrie News Page first reported the investigation on Feb. 10. Related article: Logan County Commissioner target of OSBI investigation; AG Office’s now reviewing case

Following the release, Ellis announced he would resign from his seat and did on Feb. 28. Related Article: County Commissioner under investigation announces impending resignation

Guthrie News Page was able to obtain additional details of the investigation over the weekend. Related article: Former Logan County Commissioner indicted; arrest warrant issued

A multi-county grand jury indicted Ellis which resulted in a felony charge.

Ellis was seated with a bondsman in the courtroom as he waited for his initial court appointment.

The State of Oklahoma was represented by Ricky Lutz who is the Assistant Attorney General.

Ellis responded to Judge Luke Duel’s questions with “yes sir.”

After being excused by the judge, Ellis went to the Court Clerk’s Office and signed his bond papers. Afterward, he was escorted by a deputy downstairs to be booked and released from the Detention Center.

Ellis was given a $5,000 bond and a court date of April 27 at 9 a.m.

If found guilty, Ellis could face a term not less than one year nor more than ten years, and a fine equal to triple the amount of money embezzled and ordered to pay restitution.

Related Article: Governor calls for Special Election following County Commissioner resignation

Related Article: Three candidates file to run for District 2 County Commissioner