Roger Dana Barnett. Photo from Muscogee Nation
Roger Dana Barnett, the second chief of the Muscogee Nation of Oklahoma, was arrested today on charges of embezzlement. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Barnett stole about $150,000 from the tribe. The theft occurred from April 2013 through April 2014, according to a grand jury charge. Additional information about the nature of the crime was not released by federal prosecutors. The remaining documents in Barnett's case are sealed. “As elected officers of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation we hold a great responsibility to our government and a legal duty to the citizens of our nation,” Chief George Tiger said in a statement, according to news reports.. “Our nation will continue to exercise fiscal responsibility and adhere to all financial rules, policies, accounting principles, and laws our Nation has adopted to protect the integrity of our tribal funds. “The nation will fully cooperate with the federal authorities with the message that all charges are allegations at this point and Second Chief Roger Barnett is innocent until proven guilty," Tiger said. "My thoughts and prayers go out to Second Chief Barnett and his family during this difficult time, and I hope and pray for a quick resolution to this matter.” Barnett was released on personal recognizance. Get the Story:
MCN Second Chief charged with embezzlement (The Native American Times 8/6)
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Second Chief Roger Barnett charged with embezzlement (KJRH 8/6)
Native American tribal official arrested for embezzlement (KFOR 8/6)
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