NIGC warns Soboba Band about violence and casino

Monday, June 16, 2008  

The National Indian Gaming Commission has warned the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians that the tribe's casino could face closure due to violent incidents on the reservation.

Three tribal members were killed in shootouts with Riverside County sheriff's deputies last month. Some law enforcement officials have told gamblers not to visit the Soboba Casino, citing the incidents.

Cal Fire refused to allow firefighters and paramedics to go to the reservation without a law enforcement escort. That policy has since been reversed after the tribe said it was questioned by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

None of the incidents have taken place at the actual casino but a shooting was reported less than a quarter mile away. That led to the deaths of two tribal members on May 12.

Get the Story:
Federal gaming agency raises concerns with Soboba Band (The Riverside Press-Enterprise 6/16)
Emergency personnel limits on Soboba reservation lifted (City News Service 6/14)