Property transfers could bring more legal troubles for Stipe
By Nolan Clay
Staff Writer
Indicted former state Sen. Gene Stipe has transferred his oil and gas interests in counties across Oklahoma to a new company, records show.
A state representative who learned about the transfers confirmed Wednesday he notified the FBI.
Stipe on Nov. 20 assigned his oil and gas interests in Oklahoma County and at least 16 smaller counties to Gene Stipe Exploration LLC, records show. An attorney filed paperwork to start the company Nov. 15.
Stipe has been on house arrest since a judge found him mentally incompetent to face probation revocation proceedings. Stipe was put on probation after admitting to illegal fundraising schemes involving a protege's 1998 failed congressional campaign.
Stipe also faces new accusations after being indicted in October. A federal grand jury accuses him of paying a kickback and other crimes.
Rep. Mike Reynolds, R-Oklahoma City, said he gave information to the FBI because he questioned how Stipe legally could transfer property after being found to be mentally incompetent.
"It seemed rather ironic to me,” Reynolds said.
Stipe's attorneys could not be reached for comment.
U.S. Attorney Sheldon Sperling said, "I would encourage anyone with actionable information in this case or any case to contact either our office or the appropriate investigative agency.”
http://newsok.com/article/3185646/1198734527
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