Former Mashantucket Tribe leader convicted of theft charges

Thursday, July 25, 2013  

Michael Thomas, the former chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut, was convicted of theft charges on Wednesday.

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.

Thomas did not take the stand. His defense attorney argued that some of the charges were mistakes that could have been corrected.

A sentencing date has not been set. Thomas faces up to 25 years in prison, the Associated Press reported.

Treasurer Steven Thomas, who is Michael's brother, also has been charged with stealing from the tribe. He is due to go to trial in November.

Get the Story:
Ex-leader of Mashantucket Pequot tribe convicted of theft (AP 7/24)
Former Mashantucket Pequot tribal chairman guilty on embezzlement charges (The New London Day 7/24)
FBI: Tribal leader admitted to personal purchases (AP 7/23)

Former Mashantucket leader goes on trial for theft charges (7/23)
Former Mashantucket chairman due for trial on theft charges (7/16)
Treasurer of Mashantucket Tribe barred from federal contracts (05/02)
Former Mashantucket Pequot chairman pleads not guilty to theft (1/8)