Cleveland County Acting Sheriff Takes Over

Cleveland County acting sheriff steps in after resignation

The Cleveland County acting sheriff has taken over leadership following the resignation of the county’s top law enforcement official.

Undersheriff Michael Finley is now serving in the role after former Sheriff Chris Amason stepped down following a felony case.

Officials say the transition is intended to ensure continuity of operations across the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office.

Cleveland County acting sheriff to oversee daily operations

The Cleveland County acting sheriff will manage critical public safety services during the transition.

Authorities say Finley will oversee 911 dispatch, patrol operations, and administrative functions to maintain stability within the department.

County governance and law enforcement oversight are coordinated through agencies like the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners, which is responsible for filling the vacancy.

Commissioners to appoint permanent sheriff

The next step in the process will involve appointing a permanent replacement.

The Cleveland County Commissioners — Rod Cleveland, Jacob McHughes, and Rusty Grissom — are tasked with selecting a sheriff to complete the remainder of the current term.

Officials say a public meeting is expected in the coming days to discuss the appointment process and potential oversight measures.

Local government operations and appointment procedures are guided by state frameworks overseen by entities like the Oklahoma Association of Counties.

Resignation follows felony case and plea agreement

The leadership change comes after Chris Amason pleaded no contest to a felony embezzlement charge tied to a multi-county grand jury investigation.

The case involved allegations of mishandling campaign and public funds between May 2020 and July 2025.

As part of a plea agreement, Amason must pay $10,000 in restitution and has surrendered his CLEET certification, preventing him from serving in law enforcement in Oklahoma.

He also received a five-year deferred sentence, allowing him to avoid jail time if all conditions are met.

Law enforcement certification and standards are overseen by the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET).

Officials say the focus now is on maintaining stability while the county determines its next permanent sheriff.

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