A local woman who launched an unsuccessful bid earlier this year for Muskogee’s mayoral seat faces three felony charges in an alleged insurance scam involving arson.

Glynda Mae Lorraine Oliver, 25, is charged with being an accessory to third-degree arson, conspiracy to commit arson and filing a false insurance claim.

According to court documents, Oliver allegedly conspired with two men who have been accused of setting her vehicle on fire. Authorities say Oliver then filed a false police report claiming the van had been burglarized before filing an insurance claim against the loss.

Oliver is the second mayoral candidate in Muskogee’s 2008 municipal elections to run afoul of the law. Robert Eugene Thomas, who was charged shortly after filing for office of making a false bomb threat, was given a five-year deferred sentence in May after pleading guilty in that case.

Also named in connection with the alleged arson and insurance scheme are Benjamin Daniel Ritchey and Harold James Thomas. Ritchey, 23, was charged this week with one count of conspiracy and one count of third-degree arson.

District Attorney Larry Moore said no charges have been filed against Thomas, but that could change next week.

“Anytime we get a case that involves the damage or destruction of property for the purpose of collecting insurance, we’re going to pursue it,” Moore said, noting the van targeted by the accused arsonists was a 2009 model Chrysler Town & Country mini-van. “If there is evidence of fraud, we’re going to file charges, and, of course, those are going to be felony charges.”

Jail records show Oliver is free on $20,000 bond. She failed to return telephone calls Friday seeking comment, and court records indicate she has yet to retain legal counsel.

Ritchey remains in Muskogee County/City Detention Facility in lieu of a $20,000 bond. Court records show he will be represented by a court-appointed counsel.

Court documents show both Oliver and Ritchey are scheduled to appear July 31 for a sounding docket in Muskogee County District Court. At that time, a date will be set for a preliminary hearing.

Reach D.E. Smoot at 918-684-2903 or Click Here to Send Email