Law

Reservation smoke shop owner on trial in New York

The owner of a smoke shop on the Poospatuck Reservation in New York went on trial on murder and racketeering charges.

Rodney Morrison is accusing of stealing from a business rival, burning the car of another and murdering a former employee who started a smoke shop. Prosecutor say he used these crimes to build a multi-million dollar cigarette empire.

The Unkechaug Nation, a state recognized tribe, resides on the Poospatuck reservation. Morrison is not a tribal member but is married to one. His wife, Charlette, also ran the smoke shop.

Get the Story:
Prosecutors make case against Poospatuck cigarette magnate (Newsday 11/14)