Gila River Indian Community sues to block Tohono O'odham casino

Friday, September 17, 2010  

The Gila River Indian Community filed a lawsuit against the Interior Department in hopes of stopping the Tohono O'odham Nation from building an off-reservation casino.

The Gila River Tribe says DOI violated its procedures by approving the Tohono O'odham Nation's land-into-trust application without determining whether the site can be used for gaming. The Gila River Tribe also says the site, located near Glendale, does not qualify for gaming.

The Tohono O'odham Nation purchased the land with funds that were authorized by an act of Congress. As a result, the Bureau of Indian Affairs said it was required to approve the application.

The BIA, however, has not determined whether the land can be used for gaming. That decision is expected at a later date.

The city of Glendale expects to join the fight by the end of the month. The litigation will hold up the BIA's acquisition of the Tohono O'odham Nation's land.

Get the Story:
Gila River tribe files suit to block planned Glendale casino (The Arizona Republic 9/17)
Tribe Files Lawsuit to Block Glendale Casino AP 9/17)
Gila River tribe sues to foil O'odham casino plan (The Arizona Daily Star 9/17)