A woman from Anadarko, Oklahoma, has pleaded guilty to charges of embezzlement and theft from the Caddo Nation. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to court records, Larisha Larell Wabaunasee, 38, was employed by the Caddo Nation and worked at the Caddo Nation Tag Office beginning in September 2023. Between October 2023 and November 2024, she diverted customer payments into her personal bank accounts by creating and using an unauthorized point-of-sale account. On November 4, 2025, a federal grand jury indicted Wabaunasee on charges related to embezzlement and theft from an Indian tribal organization.
U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester stated: “The defendant betrayed the trust of the Caddo Nation and its citizens by diverting customer payments for her own personal gain. Our office remains committed to working alongside our tribal and federal partners to ensure that those who steal from tribal organizations are held accountable.”
Bobby Gonzalez, Chairman of the Caddo Nation, commented: “The Caddo Nation remains focused on healing, accountability and moving forward together as a community. While this matter involved the actions of a single individual, it also reflects the strength of the systems we have in place to protect the Nation and our people. We appreciate the cooperation and professionalism shown throughout this process and remain committed to transparency, restoration, and the well-being for our community.”
Wabaunasee pleaded guilty on February 2, 2026, admitting that she had embezzled funds from customer transactions at the Tag Office for her own use. She faces up to five years in federal prison if convicted at sentencing. In addition to imprisonment, she may be required to pay restitution as well as a fine up to $250,000.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation leading to these charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon is prosecuting the case.
Further details can be found in public court filings.
