Oklahoma Senate commends staffer Marianela Neli Castaneda for response to distress call

The Oklahoma State Senate on April 6 read a formal citation honoring Marianela Neli Castaneda, an executive assistant to Sen. Michael Brooks, for actions during a Feb. 27, 2026 phone call that the citation described as indicating a possible domestic-violence emergency.

Sen. Michael Brooks introduced Castaneda and asked the chamber to welcome her family as the clerk read the citation, which said Castaneda reestablished a disconnected line, recognized subtle indicators of domestic violence, and promptly notified the Senate chief sergeant at arms and Oklahoma law enforcement. "Rather than treating the communication as a routine inquiry, Neli ... steps above and beyond the requirements of her position," the citation read.

Castaneda, who the clerk identified in the citation as Marianela Neli Castaneda, told the Senate she was "completely shocked and at the same time honored" by the recognition and described the call she received as confusing and frightened the caller. "Long story short ... Thank God, she's okay," Castaneda said, thanking colleagues and family for their support.

Brooks, who sponsored the recognition, thanked staffers who helped produce the citation and called attention to Castaneda's quick thinking. He asked members to give Castaneda and her family a warm welcome on the Senate floor.

The action at the podium was ceremonial; no formal policy or disciplinary measures were discussed. The citation, read aloud by the clerk, memorializes the Senate's recognition of Castaneda's conduct and service.