The executive director of the Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency (TAEMA) was arrested Thursday morning, accused of possessing child pornography, according to the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office.

Detectives said Joseph Kralicek was taken into custody early Thursday and charged with one count of possession of child pornography. He was booked into jail, posted a $50,000 bond, and has since been released. News On 6 reached out to Kralicek for comment but has not received a response.

Tulsa County Sheriff Vic Regalado held a press conference Thursday morning and said investigators served a warrant at Kralicek’s home around 6 a.m., following a tip from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.

TCSO Press Conference from Aug. 7, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. on this incident is available to watch below:

“Numerous images and videos consistent with violations of Oklahoma’s child pornography laws were found on the social media account that was linked to Mr. Kralicek’s IP address,” Regalado said.

The sheriff emphasized the department’s commitment to prosecuting crimes involving the exploitation of children.

“Child sex abuse is widespread and continues to rise with devastating effects on our children and families,” Regalado said. “We will continue to be vigilant in identifying and apprehending these predators.”

Charge Filed Against Kralicek:Possess, procure, manufacture, distribute, or sell CSAM (Child Sexual Abuse Material)Statement from the Tulsa County Board of County Commissioners:“Tulsa County is deeply committed to maintaining the trust and confidence of the public we serve. We understand that today’s news is concerning and may raise many questions.This morning, the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office arrested Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency (TAEMA) Director Joe Kralicek, in reference to a criminal investigation. Mr. Kralicek has been employed with TAEMA for nearly 11 years.As this is now part of an active criminal investigation, all inquiries related to the charges or investigative details should be directed to the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office.While the criminal justice process moves forward, Tulsa County remains focused on transparency, accountability, and upholding the public’s trust. 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.”Statement from the City of Tulsa:“The City of Tulsa is aware of the recent arrest of Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency (TAEMA) Director Joe Kralicek. 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.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.As this is an active legal matter, the City does not have further comment at this time.”Kralicek has served as the director of TAEMA since 2018.

The Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office also released video of deputies arresting Kralicek. The full press conference from Aug. 7, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. is available to watch below.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.