The Moore Police Department has turned over the results of a criminal investigation into alleged embezzlement by one of its own sergeants to the Cleveland County district attorney, handing the decision on possible charges to prosecutors. The department says it used only its own investigative resources and is not releasing details beyond what is already in public court filings. Sgt. Maria Delgado has been moved to an administrative assignment while a separate internal review plays out.
Department referral and investigation
In a statement to News 9, Moore police said they completed a criminal investigation and “referred the case to the Cleveland County District Attorney's office for review and appropriate criminal proceedings.” The department told News 9 that the probe relied on departmental resources and that it will share updates when it is able.
Officer's record
Public records show Sgt. Maria Delgado has been a longtime supervisor with the Moore force and is listed among award recipients in the department's annual report, according to City of Moore documents. The department's public materials list the Police Administration at 117 E. Main Street in Moore and highlight a stated commitment to holding officers to high standards.
What happens next
By sending the file to the district attorney, Moore police have shifted the next move to prosecutors, who will review the evidence and decide whether to pursue criminal charges. At the time of reporting, the Cleveland County DA had not announced any charges, according to News 9. The department said Sgt. Delgado remains on administrative assignment while the internal investigation continues and that it “will pursue accountability if those standards are violated,” as relayed to News 9.
Legal implications
A referral to the DA does not automatically result in criminal counts. Prosecutors may present the case to a grand jury or file criminal complaints if they determine there is probable cause. Oklahoma law spells out the definition of embezzlement and ties potential penalties to the value of the property at issue. The statutory framework referenced in court records is outlined in Title 21, Oklahoma statutes.
