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Narragansett smokeshop trial finally begins
Friday, February 29, 2008
Filed Under: Law


The trial of seven members of the Narragansett Tribe of Rhode Island who were arrested during the state's raid of the reservation has finally begun, more than three years after the July 14, 2003, incident.

The jury was seated yesterday and was taken to the reservation to see the smokeshop where the raid occurred. State troopers violently clashed with tribal members, resulting in the arrests of seven Narragansett -- including Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas.

Opening arguments are taking place this morning. The trial is expected to last a month.

The tribal members tried to get their misdemeanor charges dismissed after the state failed to turn over key evidence. Other documents were apparently destroyed.

The judge handling the case refused to dismiss the case but has rebuked the state.

Get the Story:
Jurors tour site of smoke-shop raid (The Providence Journal 2/29)
Username: indianz@indianz.com, Password: indianz
Trial to Begin in Tribal Smoke Shop Raid (AP 2/29)

Relevant Links:
Narragansett Tribe - http://www.narragansett-tribe.org

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