Edmond Council Places City Attorney on Administrative Leave
The city council decision follows the dismissal of a high-profile arrest case earlier this fall.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Legislative Policy
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The City of Edmond placed City Attorney Madeline Sawyer on paid administrative leave on Sept. 28, 2026. This move follows the dismissal of the arrest of Secretary of State Benjamin LePak.
Why it matters
The disciplinary action comes amid heightened scrutiny over local legal proceedings and the city government's oversight of the attorney's office.
The council held a special meeting on Oct. 12, 2026, to discuss the attorney's employment status and appointed Laura McDevitt as acting city attorney.
The players
Madeline Sawyer
She served as the City Attorney for Edmond before being placed on paid administrative leave.
Benjamin LePak
He is the Secretary of State who was arrested at a local McDonald's prior to the dismissal of his case.
Laura McDevitt
She was appointed to serve as the acting city attorney for Edmond on Oct. 12.
The details
Following the arrest of Secretary of State Benjamin LePak at a local McDonald's, City Attorney Madeline Sawyer dismissed the charges on Sept. 16, 2026. The Edmond City Council subsequently voted to enter an executive session to address employment matters related to the attorney's office.
Timeline
Sept. 16, 2026: Benjamin LePak's arrest was dismissed by Madeline Sawyer.
Sept. 28, 2026: Madeline Sawyer was placed on paid administrative leave.
Oct. 12, 2026: A special council meeting was held to discuss attorney employment.
Political Context
Opponents of the council action may argue that using executive sessions for high-profile personnel disputes lacks the transparency required under the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act. Supporters conversely contend that the council is exercising its authority to manage administrative staff during sensitive legal challenges.
Residents may notice changes in municipal legal representation as Laura McDevitt assumes the duties of acting city attorney. This transition could affect the processing of local legal filings and city-related court matters in the coming months.
The takeaway
Maintaining clear oversight of city legal departments remains essential for public confidence in municipal operations. Residents should monitor future council meetings for updates on the city attorney's permanent employment status.
Further reading
For more on municipal governance, see Legislative Policy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by UCentral Media.
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