Enid, OK – A former disability services director in Oklahoma is facing embezzlement charges after a Multi-County Grand Jury investigation uncovered that she allegedly misappropriated over $15,000 in state funds intended for services for individuals with disabilities.
Freedom Anderson, 46, served as the executive director of Brightway Community Living from August 2022 to May 2024. During this time, Anderson is accused of diverting state aid money that was designated for essential services to help vulnerable Oklahomans. According to the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, Anderson is accused of pocketing the funds for herself rather than using them to support the individuals Brightway serves.
The investigation, which was led by the Multi-County Grand Jury, revealed that the misappropriation occurred across multiple counties, including Oklahoma, Tulsa, Cleveland, McClain, and Washington. As a result, Anderson is facing an additional charge of Engaging in a Pattern of Criminal Offenses, as the alleged theft spanned multiple jurisdictions.
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond condemned Anderson’s actions, emphasizing the severe consequences of embezzlement when funds are meant to aid the state’s most vulnerable citizens. “When someone embezzles funds meant to support our most vulnerable citizens, they aren’t just stealing money – they’re stealing opportunity and dignity from those who depend on these vital services,” Drummond said in a statement. “My office will vigorously prosecute those who exploit their positions of authority to divert taxpayer dollars away from their intended purpose, especially when those dollars are meant to serve Oklahomans with disabilities.”
Brightway Community Living, which operated across multiple locations in Oklahoma, received state aid to provide services to individuals with disabilities. However, the investigation found that the funds were not used for their intended purposes, resulting in the significant theft.
Anderson’s case has brought attention to the ongoing efforts to hold accountable those who exploit public funds meant for critical services. The Attorney General’s Office has vowed to continue its pursuit of justice in cases of embezzlement, particularly those that impact Oklahoma’s most vulnerable populations.
The charges against Anderson mark a significant development in a growing number of investigations into public service misuse across the state. The case is expected to proceed with further legal proceedings in the coming months.
