Alva Attorney Arrested

ONWN NEWS REPORT

ALVA, Oklahoma — An Alva attorney has been arrested following an Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation inquiry into alleged financial crimes involving embezzlement and exploitation.

According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the investigation began after the District 26 District Attorney’s Office requested assistance regarding irregularities tied to the Woods County Bar Association’s checking account. Investigators determined that 49-year-old Jessie Kline deposited funds into the account and later wrote multiple checks payable to himself.

Authorities say Kline, a licensed Oklahoma attorney since 2001 with an office in Alva, received more than $43,000 from the bar association account beginning in October 2023.

Investigators also uncovered allegations tied to a long-term guardianship case. Records show Kline was appointed in December 2007 as guardian for an adult male and was court-ordered to manage rent and living expenses. OSBI agents determined Kline failed to submit required accounting reports for approximately 14 years and made payments to himself outside the scope of his guardianship duties. Officials allege more than $291,000 was taken from the victim’s account over several years.

Based on the findings, the Woods County District Court issued an arrest warrant. On January 13, 2026, OSBI agents arrested Kline in Alva. He was booked into the Woods County Jail on nine counts of Exploitation of a Disabled Adult and two counts of Embezzlement.

The investigation remains ongoing. OSBI acknowledged assistance from the Woods County Sheriff’s Office, Alva Police Department, and the Woods County Bar Association.

This is a developing story. ONWN will provide updates as new information becomes available.