Ex-BIA official's action being investigated

FROM THE ARCHIVE

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APRIL 16, 2001

A Department of Interior spokesperson on Saturday said the Inspector General's office is looking into a decision reportedly made by former Bureau of Indian Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary Michael Anderson on behalf of the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe of New York.

According to The Boston Globe, Anderson in October declared the tribe's court had no legal authority. The decision was made shortly after a group of tribal members brought a lawsuit against Park Place Entertainment, the largest gaming company in the world.

The suit alleges Park Place illegaly interfered in the tribe's previous agreement with another gaming company. Some tribal leaders opposed the lawsuit and allegedly urged Anderson to make his decision to help them undermine the court.

But the lawsuit preceded anyway and the court awarded a $1.8 billion judgment against the company. The court has had a rocky relationship with the tribe for a number of years and tribal leaders have ordered it disbanded.

In a letter to the Interior, Manhattan lawyer Thomas Puccio says Anderson's decision was made to benefit his future client. Interior spokesperson Stephanie said the Inspector General is looking into Puccio's allegation, but did not specify if it was a formal investigation.

Anderson now works for a Washington, DC, lobbying and law firm and represents the tribe.

Puccio is representing a group of New York investors who oppose the Mohawk casino and want to build their own in the Catskills.

Puccio is also representing a man convicted of violating federal tax and securities laws. Edward Downe Jr. was pardoned by President Clinton in January.

Get the Story:
Official took job after aid for casino (The Boston Globe 4/14)
Clinton administration accused of using office to help get job (AP 4/14)