Brent Swadley, owner and co-founder of the Swadley's BBQ chain, has publicly responded to an ongoing investigation into his company's business practices regarding state park restaurant renovations in Oklahoma. In his direct communication with Oklahomans, Swadley defends the reputation of both his family and his business amidst what he deems a whirlwind of "political gamesmanship." In the letter, Swadley states, "Due to the politically charged times in which we live, our family's reputation and business are under attack," as reported by OKC FOX.
Swadley described the challenges his family faced while renovating six Oklahoma state parks' restaurants, including "years of rot and wear and tear" that led to constant changes in the project. The family claims to have continued funding the project out of pocket when state payments were allegedly withheld. "For the final eight months, we continued building... not knowing the state was purposely withholding payment," Swadley conveyed in a letter referenced by News on 6.
The controversy stems from accusations of fraudulent activity involving Swadley's BBQ, specifically during their contract to renovate restaurants at state parks. The Oklahoma Tourism Department canceled the contract in 2022, which led to a lawsuit against Swadley's for allegedly presenting false invoices, according to an article by KOCO. The prosecutors claim, among other allegations, that an invoice for two used smokers was inflated by 30%. Attorney General Gentner Drummond is quoted in the article stating, "Mr. Swadley will certainly have his day in court to make his case."
In Swadley’s defense, he denied the allegations, calling them "false, politically motivated," as per his letter highlighted by News on 6. Swadley emphasized his trust in an ultimate revelation of truth, expressing confidence in both legal processes and divine intervention. "God knows the truth, and we trust it will come to light," he wrote. Despite these firm declarations, the legal battle appears positioned to continue its course, with the Oklahoma Attorney General's resolve to prosecute what is perceived as potential fraud against the state and its taxpayers.
Swadley's attempt to cast his company and family as victims in a larger political drama adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate legal dispute. It is yet to be seen how this narrative will unfold in the courts and public opinion as Oklahomans weigh in on the evolving situation surrounding the popular BBQ chain's entanglement with state contracts and allegations of misconduct.
