Oklahoma Resident Pleads Guilty to Child Neglect on Cherokee Land

Cody Dale Cole, a 33-year-old resident of Park Hill, Oklahoma, has pleaded guilty to one count of child neglect in Indian Country. The charge, which Cole admitted to, is punishable by up to life imprisonment and a fine of $250,000, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

The incident took place on or about April 16, 2026, in Cherokee County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation. Prosecutors alleged that Cole willfully and maliciously failed to protect a child under the age of 18 from exposure to illegal drugs while he was responsible for the child's health, safety, and welfare.

The investigation into the crime was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The guilty plea was accepted by Magistrate Judge D. Edward Snow in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. Following the plea, a presentence investigation report has been ordered to be completed.

Cole will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service as he awaits sentencing. A U. S.

District Court Judge will determine the final sentence after considering the U. S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U. S. Attorney Morgan Muzljakovich represented the United States in this case.

The case highlights the serious legal consequences of child neglect, especially when it involves exposure to illegal substances. The outcome of the sentencing will depend on various factors, including the details outlined in the presentence investigation report and the applicable sentencing guidelines.