Who is the rightful leader of the Ione Band of Miwok Indians of California? That depends on who you ask.

Matthew Franklin says he was elected by tribal members in Aprl 2003 after a lengthy reorganization process that included the adoption of a constitution. He is trying to have land placed into trust for a casino.

Nicolas Villa Jr. disputes the election and claims to be hereditary chief, a title he has used for at least 30 years. He has been trying to have 40 acres placed into trust, possibly for a casino.

Villa and his faction say the Ione Band is a small tribe with about 70 members. They claim the Bureau of Indian Affairs illegaly opened the rolls to BIA employees. Franklin said the membership is now around 610.

The FBI, the General Accounting Office and the Inspector General of the Department of Interior are reportedly investigating allegations of BIA influence. The BIA's former regional director is a tribal member who has been warned not to make decisions affecting the tribe.

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Ione Band factions trade shots (The Amador Ledger-Dispatch 4/21)