The Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board would like to update the community pertaining to the two employees that are currently placed on investigative leave for employee misconduct through the misappropriation of tribal funds. The investigation is ongoing. The Tribe is working with its independent auditor to conduct a limited engagement audit of the accounts in question.
In addition, the Tribal Governing Board is implementing the necessary policy related safeguards to protect tribal resources. The matter has also been referred to the Lac Courte Oreilles Police Department who is coordinating with Washburn and Bayfield counties to conduct the criminal investigation into the matter along with the Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation.
It should be noted that pursuant to 18 USC §§ 666 and 1163, an individual found guilty of the embezzlement, conversion or misapplication of property from an Indian Tribal Government receiving federal funds carries a penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.
The Tribal Governing Board will continue to update the community members as this investigation continues as well as any potential prosecutorial actions that result.
Press Release from the LCO TGB