Law

Former leader of Mashantucket Tribe files appeal in theft case





Michael Thomas, the former chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut, has filed a notice of appeal in his theft case.

In July, a federal jury found Thomas guilty of one count of theft from an Indian tribal organization and two counts of theft concerning an Indian tribal government receiving federal funds. Prosecutors said he used a tribal credit card to make $100,000 in unauthorized purchases.

In September, a federal judge sentenced Thomas to 18 months in prison. His attorney didn't say whether the conviction, the sentence, or both, will be the subject of the appeal.

The case will go to the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals.

Get the Story:
Michael Thomas files notice of appeal (The New London Day 12/11)

Related Stories:
Former Mashantucket chair sentenced to 18 months over theft (11/20)
Prosecutors recommend sentence for former Pequot chair (11/13)
Lori Ann Potter: Mashantucket Tribe can learn from mistakes (10/08)
Editorial: Mashantucket Tribe sullied by criminal convictions (10/7)

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