State senator pleads guilty to fraud charges

TULSA, Okla. (AP) – A two-term state senator who pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges faces a maximum sentence of more than 20 years in prison.

Sen. Rick Brinkley pleaded guilty Thursday to five counts of wire fraud and one count of filing a false tax return. He resigned his seat in the Legislature shortly after the charges were announced.

U.S. Attorney Danny C. Williams says Brinkley faces a maximum sentence of 20 years for the wire fraud charges and three years in prison for the false tax return count. He’s due in federal court for sentencing on Nov. 20.

According to a plea agreement filed with the court, prosecutors will recommend a sentence reduction as long as Brinkley "clearly demonstrates acceptance of responsibility," though the final decision is up to the judge.