Law | Politics

Prosecutors recommend sentence for former Pequot chair





Federal prosecutors recommended a sentence for Michael Thomas, the former chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut who was convicted on theft charges.

Prosecutors say Thomas should serve between 27 to 33 months, The New London Day reported. They also want him to pay restitution of $123,319 to the tribe.

In July, a federal jury found Thomas guilty of one count of theft from an Indian tribal organization and two counts of theft concerning an Indian tribal government receiving federal funds. The verdict came after a two day trial in which federal prosecutors said the ex-leader used a tribal credit card to make $100,000 in unauthorized purchases.

Former treasurer Steven Thomas, who is Michael's brother, pleaded guilty to one count of theft from an Indian tribal organization.

Get the Story:
Prosecutors recommend 27 to 33 months in prison for Michael Thomas (The New London Day 11/13)

Related Stories:
Lori Ann Potter: Mashantucket Tribe can learn from mistakes (10/08)
Editorial: Mashantucket Tribe sullied by criminal convictions (10/7)
Outgoing treasurer of Pequot Tribe expected to plead guilty (10/02)
Judge won't delay theft case for treasurer of Mashantucket Tribe (9/4)
Former Mashantucket Tribe leader convicted of theft charges (07/25)
Former Mashantucket leader goes on trial for theft charges (07/23)

Join the Conversation