Judge quashes grand jury petition against Wagoner County sheriff and district attorney

A petition to call for a grand jury investigation into the Wagoner County sheriff and district attorney was rejected by a Pittsburg County Judge.

The petition centered around four cases, including two people who died in custody.

The judge's order stated that the petitioners did not get enough signatures. They needed to get 4,300 and were short by nearly 600.

Jack Thorp sent News On 6 this statement:

I am thankful for the Judge’s ruling. This grand jury petition was factually and legally incorrect. It alleged many facts that are untrue, and sought indictments in cases as old as seven years, where the statute of limitations had clearly run out. I want to specially thank my attorney and friend Joel Wohlgemuth for his wise counsel and vigorous defense.

Sheriff Chris Elliot also responded to the dismissal:

Previous stories:

1. Wagoner County leaders deny wrongdoing as calls for grand jury investigation continue
2. 'Want to see accountability': Wagoner County residents push for grand jury petition, investigation into Sheriff and District Attorney