Robert J. "Bob" Troester U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma
A woman from Anadarko, Oklahoma, has pleaded guilty to embezzling funds from the Caddo Nation. Larisha Larell Wabaunasee, 38, admitted in federal court that she diverted customer payments into her personal bank accounts while working at the Caddo Nation Tag Office.
According to public records, Wabaunasee was employed by the Caddo Nation beginning in September 2023. Between October 2023 and November 2024, she used an unauthorized point-of-sale account to transfer customer payments for her own use. She was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 4, 2025, on charges of 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 entered her guilty plea on February 2, 2026. She admitted to embezzling funds by redirecting transactions meant for the tribe into her own accounts. She could face up to five years in prison as well as restitution payments and a fine of up to $250,000 when sentenced.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon is prosecuting.
Further details can be found in public court filings.
