Gaming machines at the WinnaVegas Casino Resort in Sloan, Iowa. Photo: WinnaVegas Casino Resort

Public Relations

Former vice chairman from Winnebago Tribe sentenced in gaming theft case

Monday, January 8, 2018

Darwin Snyder, a former vice chairman of the Winnebago Tribe, has been sentenced to 5 years probation for his role in a gaming theft case.

Darwin Snyder also was ordered to pay $36,500 in restitution for accepting funds from the WinnaVegas Casino Resort without authorization, The Sioux City Journal reported. He had pleaded guilty last October.

A total of nine former leaders were charged as part of the the case. Six, including John Blackhawk, the tribe's longtime former chairman, have pleaded guilty and all have been sentenced.

Of the remaining three defendants, one has secured the dismissal of charges while another is undergoing a mental health evaluation. The last defendant has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial.

The cases have been prosecuted in Nebraska, where tribal headquarters are located. WinnaVegas is on trust land in Iowa.

The full docket entry for Snyder's sentencing follows:

TEXT MINUTE ENTRY for proceedings held before Chief Judge Laurie Smith Camp as to defendant Darwin Snyder. Sentencing held on 1/8/2018. Presentence Investigation Report is adopted. Plea agreement accepted. Government's oral motion to dismiss counts II and X is granted. Defendant is sentenced to: Probation for a term of 5 years; Special Assessment in the amount of $100.00; Restitution in the amount of $36,500, (paid $4,955.80); Defendant released on conditions of probation; Appearance for plaintiff: Douglas R. Semisch; Appearance for defendant: Clarence E. Mock, III, CJA; No interpreter used during hearing. Courtroom Deputy: Mary Roundtree; Court Reporter: Brenda L. Fauber; Time Start: 10:06 AM; Time Stop: 10:15 AM; Time in Court:9 Minutes. (MKR)

Read More on the Story:
Former Winnebago tribal vice chairman placed on probation for theft (The Sioux City Journal January 8, 2017)