(8/13/25) Update: Joe Kralicek resigned from his position as Executive Director of the Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency, the City of Tulsa confirmed.
It comes ahead of a planned vote of the Tulsa County Board of County Commissioners Wednesday on Kralicek’s employment.
“Our responsibility is to uphold the trust of Tulsa County residents and maintain continuity of critical services.” BOCC Chairman Lonnie Sims said. “This action allows all parties involved to move forward.”
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols had called for Kralicek’s termination, citing “credible allegations” in a probable cause affidavit.
(8/7/25) Original Story: Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency Director Joe Kralicek was charged with possession of child pornography on Thursday, according to court records.
A probable cause affidavit states the messaging app Kik reported “apparent child pornography” to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
The affidavit described several videos and images discovered in the investigation. It also states that Kraliceck was using his Kik account while at work at TAEMA and described “multiple self-taken videos and images of Joseph, by Joseph, while sitting at his desk.”
The document indicates pornographic material was accessed and shared while Kraliceck was at home and at work.
Tulsa County Sheriff Vic Regalado said the investigation was ongoing and that additional charges were possible.
The Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office posted video of Kralicek’s arrest here.
Tulsa County released a statement regarding Kralicek’s arrest.
“Tulsa County is deeply committed to maintaining the trust and confidence of the public we serve," the statement read. “We understand that today’s news is concerning and may raise many questions.”
Tulsa County went on to say Kralicek has been employed with TAEMA for nearly 11 years.
“While the criminal justice process moves forward, Tulsa County remains focused on transparency, accountability, and upholding the public’s trust,” Tulsa County stated. "We ask for the public’s understanding as we allow the legal process to take its course and continue to support the integrity of our organization and the communities we serve."
The City of Tulsa also released a statement.
“The City of Tulsa is aware of the recent arrest of Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency (TAEMA) Director Joe Kralicek, the City stated. “These allegations are serious and deeply disturbing.”
“We are still gathering information and will fully cooperate with law enforcement and our partners at Tulsa County as the investigation proceeds,” the City of Tulsa added. "At the same time, we are committed to working with our partners at Tulsa County to ensure TAEMA is staffed and leadership is in place to run the agency. At this time, Tulsa remains fully prepared to respond to any emergencies that may arise.
The City said it does not have further comment at this time as this is an active legal matter.