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TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 2002

The top aide to Rhode Island's Secretary of State has been barred from involvement in statewide issues because he arranged meetings between the Narragansett Tribe and a casino company.

Chief of staff Joseph DeLorenzo has come under fire because it is alleged he tried to pressure the tribe into partnering with Harrah's Entertainment for a new casino push in the state. The tribe instead went with Boyd Gaming, an long-time backer.

DeLorenzo denies any wrongdoing and said tribal officials are lying about the extent of his involvement. Tribal leaders described meetings in which they were told joining with Harrah's would finally guarantee success in their quest for gaming.

Edward Inman, DeLorenzo's boss, said his aide made a mistake. He says calls for DeLorenzo to resign are unwarranted.

Get the Story:
Opponent urges Inman aide to resign (The Providence Journal 3/19)
Turf battle widens in bid for casino (The Providence Journal 3/19)
Inman says staffer erred in brokering meeting with casino interests (AP 3/19)

Relevant Links:
Narragansett Tribe - http://www.narragansett-tribe.org
Boyd Gaming - http://www.boydgaming.com

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