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MAY 29, 2001

Mescalero Apache Stronghold Inc., a watchdog group composed members of the Mescalero Apache Nation of New Mexico, on Friday called for the FBI to re-open its investigation of former President Wendell Chino.

The group says the FBI needs to investigate if charges that Chino rigged slot machines so that he and his wife could receive large payouts involved other tribal officials. The group says Chino's death in 1998 shouldn't have stopped the probe, confirmed by a freedom of information act request made by an area television station.

Chino led the tribe for more than 40 years into economic and political success. Since his death, the tribe has undergone a number of internal struggles, including the ouster and attempted ouster of various tribal leaders.

Stronghold is led by Harlyn Geronimo, who was a council member under Chino and current President Sara Misquez. Misquez led an ouster of Chino's successor, A. Paul Ortega.

Get the Story:
FBI Asked to Reopen Chino Case (The Albuquerque Journal 5/26)

Related Stories:
FBI was investigating Wendell Chino (5/24)