Sara Polston is back in custody at Mabel Bassett Correctional Center, a month before a new Oklahoma law was set to impact her situation. This week the Oklahoma Department of Corrections returned Polston to prison amid allegations that she illegally voted twice while serving a felony sentence. Cleveland County prosecutors plan to charge her with two felony counts after state election records indicated she voted in the June 16 primary and August 25 runoff elections.
Polston had previously been released after serving just 73 days of an eight-year sentence for a drunk-driving crash that left Micaela Borrego with brain damage and lasting injuries. Her early release, facilitated by a GPS monitoring program, drew criticism and allegations of political favoritism due to her connections with Governor Kevin Stitt. A grand jury found no criminal wrongdoing in her release but described the political influence as "rank."
Polston had filed a federal lawsuit in August to block her removal from the GPS program under a new state law set to take effect on November 1, which would make individuals convicted of DUI with great bodily injury ineligible for such programs. However, her recent return to prison was conducted under the program's existing rules, not the impending legislation.
Attorney General Gentner Drummond emphasized that Polston's actions show a disregard for accountability. "She belongs in prison for causing an accident while driving under the influence," Drummond stated. The new charges add to the legal challenges Polston faces as the state continues to scrutinize her case.