OSBI conducts second search in Epic investigation

OSBI conducts second search in Epic investigation

OSBI conducts second search in Epic investigation

The OSBI has seized new evidence in an embezzlement investigation into Epic Charter Schools.

In a search warrant affidavit filed Wednesday, agents raised new allegations of forgery and willful neglect against Epic, the state’s largest virtual charter school system.

The OSBI searched the home of Kurt Talbott, of OKC Storm Athletics, an Epic vendor. Investigators alleged the home-school athletics organization unlawfully received state funds from Epic.

“Kurt Talbott employed over a dozen coaches who were not certified teachers and provided direct instruction to players,” OSBI agent Tommy Johnson reported in the search warrant. “Kurt Talbott admitted that state appropriated funds were used to buy uniforms for Epic students, cover some of the costs of paying the coaches, and other expenses of the OKC Storm.”

Talbott told Johnson that he directly invoiced Epic for players’ fees, uniforms and training. OKC Storm coaches home-school students in basketball, swimming, tennis, cross country, track, golf, pom and volleyball.

When reached by phone, Talbott said he would speak with a reporter later, but he did not CONTINUE READING: OSBI conducts second search in Epic investigation

Related content

Document: Statement from Epic Board of EducationOSBI warrant: 'Ghost students' at EpicStitt, Hofmeister call for audit of EpicDocument: View Stitt's audit requestDocument: View the OSBI search warrantEpic to receive state funds while OSBI embezzlement investigation continuesOklahoma latest to grapple with online school problems