The Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana swore in its first new chairman in more than 20 years on Wednesday.

Former tribal police chief Kevin Sickey defeated William Worfel in a run-off election this past Saturday. After receiving 87 percent of the vote, he said he will work to restore accountability to the tribe.

Sickey was ousted amid controversy over the tribe's relationship with disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff. Former chairman Lovelin Poncho, who did not seek re-election, and Worfel authorized $32 million in payments to Abramoff.

Worfel still sits on the council. Regina "Tee" Labuff and Verlis Williams were sworn in as new council members on Wednesday.

Get the Story:
Coushatta Inauguration (KLFY-TV 6/9)

Relevant Links:
Coushatta Tribe - http://www.coushattatribela.org

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