Oklahoma County’s top prosecutor announced Wednesday that no criminal charges would be filed against state School Superintendent Ryan Walters following reports that explicit images were viewed on a television in his office.
District Attorney Vicki Behenna stated that her office found “insufficient evidence” to support any criminal action. The decision comes after two members of the Oklahoma State Board of Education reported seeing images of naked women on a television screen in Walters’ office during an executive session in July.
Board members Becky Carson and Ryan Deatherage told the online news outlet NonDoc that the images were visible while the board met in Walters’ office. Walters, however, has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that he did not display inappropriate content intentionally.
Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III, whose office conducted the investigation, clarified the situation. Investigators determined that the television in Walters’ office was tuned to a movie channel playing the 1985 Jackie Chan film The Protector. The film contains a scene where naked women enter a warehouse to package drugs, which may have been what board members observed.
“This concludes the biggest witch hunt in Oklahoma history,” Walters said in a statement. He also criticized the media and those who raised the allegations, asserting that their actions were intended to derail his policy agenda.
Walters, a Republican, has gained national attention during his tenure for outspoken support of former President Donald Trump, frequent clashes with teachers’ unions and local school superintendents, and his efforts to remove what he describes as “wokeness” from Oklahoma public schools.
Background on the Allegations
The allegations emerged after board members attended an executive session in July. According to their accounts, a television in Walters’ office displayed images of naked women, prompting concern and the eventual filing of a report. The board members emphasized that they did not believe Walters had intentionally broadcast explicit content but felt compelled to report what they saw due to the professional setting.
Following the report, the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation. Investigators reviewed Walters’ office setup, television programming, and the circumstances under which the alleged images were viewed. Sheriff Johnson explained that the scene from The Protector likely accounted for what the board members observed, ruling out any intentional misconduct by the superintendent.
District Attorney’s Statement
DA Vicki Behenna’s office released a statement confirming the decision not to pursue criminal charges. “After a thorough review of the evidence and witness statements, we have determined that there is insufficient evidence to support criminal charges,” Behenna said. The statement highlighted that while the report prompted a formal review, the investigation found no indication of unlawful behavior.
Superintendent Walters’ Response
In his own statement, Walters framed the allegations as politically motivated attacks intended to obstruct his initiatives in the state’s education system. He called the investigation “a witch hunt” and expressed frustration at media coverage surrounding the incident. Walters reaffirmed his commitment to his agenda, which includes education reforms aimed at reducing what he describes as ideological influence in classrooms.
Political and Public Reactions
The incident sparked a mix of public and political reactions. Critics argued that any inappropriate content in a government office should be thoroughly investigated, regardless of intent. Supporters of Walters emphasized that the investigation’s findings vindicate the superintendent and suggested that the media coverage had been exaggerated.
Education experts and local officials noted that the incident highlights the importance of maintaining professionalism and transparency in public office. While the investigation concluded that Walters did not intentionally display explicit images, the event has sparked broader discussion about workplace standards and accountability among elected officials.
Walters’ Tenure and Controversies
Since taking office, Walters has frequently been at the center of controversial policies and public statements. He has openly supported former President Donald Trump, often invoking national political figures in discussions about state education policy. Walters has also engaged in repeated conflicts with teachers’ unions, criticizing union influence and advocating for changes in public school curriculum.
One of his major policy goals has been the removal of what he calls “woke” teachings from classrooms. This has included pushing for legislation and administrative actions that influence how topics like race, gender, and history are taught in Oklahoma schools. Walters’ approach has drawn praise from conservative constituents but criticism from educators and progressives who argue that it limits comprehensive education.
Lessons and Broader Implications
While no charges were filed, the incident underscores the need for caution and transparency in public office. Workplace standards in government settings are closely scrutinized, and even unintentional exposures can lead to formal complaints and investigations. The case also illustrates how quickly allegations can escalate in the age of media and social platforms, especially when public figures are involved.
Observers have noted that the investigation process in this case was conducted professionally, with clear communication from law enforcement and the district attorney’s office. The resolution—finding no criminal wrongdoing—may help Walters move past the incident, though it also serves as a reminder of the heightened scrutiny faced by public officials in controversial or politically charged environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ryan Walters?
Ryan Walters is the Oklahoma State School Superintendent, known for conservative education policies and support of former President Trump.
What were the allegations against Ryan Walters?
Two Oklahoma Board of Education members reported seeing images of naked women on a television in Walters’ office during an executive session.
Were any criminal charges filed against Walters?
No. Oklahoma County District Attorney Vicki Behenna determined there was insufficient evidence to support criminal charges.
What did the investigation by the Oklahoma County Sheriff reveal?
Investigators found that the television was tuned to the 1985 Jackie Chan film The Protector, which contained a brief scene with naked women.
How did Walters respond to the allegations?
Walters denied wrongdoing, called the investigation a “witch hunt,” and accused the media and accusers of trying to derail his education agenda.
Why did this incident gain public attention?
The case drew media coverage due to the high-profile nature of the superintendent and political tensions surrounding his education policies.
What impact could this incident have on Walters’ tenure?
While cleared of criminal wrongdoing, the episode highlights scrutiny on public officials and may influence perceptions of professionalism and accountability.
Conclusion
Oklahoma Education Chief Ryan Walters has been cleared of any criminal wrongdoing after an investigation into alleged explicit images in his office. The review found the images were part of a movie scene, not intentional misconduct. While the incident sparked significant media attention and debate, it underscores the scrutiny public officials face and the importance of professionalism in government settings. With the matter resolved legally, Walters can now focus on advancing his education agenda and state policy initiatives.
