Creek Nation leader wins decision over control of casinos

Monday, March 22, 2010  

Chief A.D. Ellis of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation won a lawsuit over control of the tribe's six casinos.

Ellis took over the casinos after he said an audit revealed financial mismanagement. He also pointed to a letter from the National Indian Gaming Commission that raised concerns about casino revenues.

Creek Nation District Judge Patrick Moore agreed with Ellis and said the principal chief's office can continue to oversee the casinos in Eufaula, Checotah, Duck Creek, Holdenville, Okemah and Bristow. Previously, the casinos were run by their respective local community.

"It's about the biggest case in our history. It involves probably $40 million," Ellis told The Tulsa World. "It had to be done. I think it saved us from losing our gaming."

Get the Story:
Judge lets stand casinos' control (The Tulsa World 3/22)

Earlier Story:
Decision awaited in Creek Nation casino revenue case (1/11)