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Seven Indicted in Tribal Casino Investigation

CALIFORNIA – As reported by the California Press-Democrat: "More than two years after investigators raided Coyote Valley tribal and casino offices near Ukiah, a federal grand jury has indicted seven of its former leaders on 39 counts, including conspiracy to embezzle.

"…The investigation began almost four years ago, but became public in May 2004 when nearly 100 federal, state and local law enforcement agents descended on Shodakai Casino and tribal offices and the homes of tribal council members, seizing computers and files.

"Former tribal Chairwoman Priscilla Hunter, who is named in the indictment, refused to comment after the indictments, filed Aug. 15, were unsealed Monday.

"But her son, Michael Hunter, who also was indicted, said he is looking forward to the opportunity to clear his name after two years of living under a cloud of suspicion and innuendo.

"…Also named are Michelle Campbell, Iris Martinez, Darlene Crabtree, Allan Crabtree and Fred Naredo. All seven were ousted from the board in elections held in late 2004 and early 2005.

"The charges for each of the members varies. But all seven are charged with multiple counts of misappropriating casino funds between January 1995 and December 2004…"

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