Full Breakdown
Oklahoma Secretary of State Benjamin Lepak Arrested for Public Intoxication
8/21/2026, 12:31:09 PM
Arrest Details
On a Friday night in August, Edmond police responded to a report of a man appearing intoxicated at a McDonald’s drive-thru. Officers found Benjamin Lepak, the state’s secretary of state, standing at the window with his vehicle parked nearby. The police report notes “extremely slurred speech,” an “odor of an alcoholic beverage” on his breath, and difficulty retrieving his identification. Lepak was unable to maintain a coherent train of thought and was placed under arrest for public intoxication. He was booked into the City of Edmond Jail and is scheduled for arraignment in September in Edmond Municipal Court.
Background & Context
Lepak was appointed interim secretary of state by Governor Kevin Stitt in October 2025 and confirmed by the state Senate on April 28. Prior to his appointment, he served as the governor’s general counsel and held leadership roles with the State Chamber Research Foundation and the Statewide Charter School Board. Lepak’s record includes a May 2021 arrest for suspected driving while intoxicated and a 2022 citation for public intoxication that resulted in a no-contest plea.
Data & Statistics
- Prior incidents: 2021 DUI-related arrest; 2022 public intoxication citation.
- Current charge: One count of public intoxication; potential for additional charges if further evidence emerges.
Official Statements & Responses
- Lepak’s office released an unsigned statement asserting that Lepak was waiting for dinner, was not administered a breathalyzer test, and will address the citation through the legal process.
- Governor Stitt has not publicly commented on the incident as of the latest reports.
Criticism & Opposition
Attorney General Gentner Drummond called the incident a “public trust” issue and urged the governor to place Lepak on leave while the matter is investigated.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Driving claim: Lepak told officers he did not drive to the restaurant, yet the police report states his vehicle was observed in the parking lot and an officer noted it was “apparent” that he drove there.
- Breathalyzer test: Lepak’s spokesperson says no breathalyzer was administered; the police report does not mention a test being performed.
- Alcohol consumption: Lepak initially denied drinking, later admitted to having a beer, then back-tracked to say he did not finish it. Officers recorded both statements, creating uncertainty about the exact amount consumed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “After reviewing footage from law enforcement body cameras, it is clear that Secretary of State Ben Lepak was thoroughly inebriated and very likely lied to law enforcement about how much he had to drink and how he and his car both arrived at the same place without him driving it,” — Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma Attorney General
- “I had a beer … that’s it,” — Benjamin Lepak, spokesperson
- “I am calling on the governor to place Lepak on leave while this matter is fully and independently investigated,” — Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma Attorney General
What’s Next
The case will proceed to arraignment in September. Attorney General Drummond has asked for the body-camera footage to be released publicly and for an independent investigation. Governor Stitt’s response and any potential disciplinary action remain pending.
