Gaming machines at the Cypress Bayou Casino Hotel in Charenton, Louisiana. Photo from Chitimacha Tribe
The former casino manager for the Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana has admitted his role in a theft case involving Chairman O'Neal Darden. According to news reports, Anthony Patrone admitted that he authorized a bonus to Darden even though the chairman wasn't entitled to it. Patrone will pay a $250 fine as part of a plea deal that was reached in consultation with the tribe, The Acadiana Advocate reported. "They were not interested in seeking jail time," local prosecutor Rob Vines told the paper. Darden remains under indictment, having been arrested in June for accepting the bonus. He is still in office but was suspended back in February. He has since repaid the money to the tribe, The Advocate reported News reports have conflicted on the size of the bonus, with The Advocate saying it was $3,983 while KATC other media outlets saying it was $5,700. Darden used to work at the Cypress Bayou Casino Hotel but had to step down after winning election as chairman last year. Since he was no longer working there, he wasn't entitled to an employment bonus, authorities have said. Additionally, Monte Spivey, the tribe's former chief financial officer remains under indictment. He allegedly manipulated casino employee records so that Darden could receive the bonus. Read More on the Story:
Plea reached in alleged improper casino bonus to Chitimacha tribal chairman (The Acadiana Advocate 10/5)
Former casino manager pleads guilty to misdemeanor (KATC 10/5)
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