California | Openings & Closings

Disputed leader of Chukchansi Tribe sentenced for clash at casino

Friday, July 3, 2015

Tex McDonald. Photo from Facebook

A disputed leader of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians was sentenced to 485 days for his role in a clash at the tribe's casino in California.

Tex McDonald, 65, pleaded guilty to a false imprisonment charge. He admitted he took part in an incident at the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino that led to its closure last October.

McDonald could have faced life in prison had he not reached a plea deal. He has two prior felony convictions so another felony would have invoked the state's three strikes sentencing law.

“In sum, it appears to the court that the Three Strikes Law was not intended to enhance sentencing to individuals who turned their focus from criminality to serving the community and serving persons with controlled substance addictions,” Judge Dale Blea said in court, The Fresno Bee reported. The judged noted that McDonald worked as a substance abuse counselor for 12 years before entering tribal politics.

McDonald, who was chairman of one of the rival factions of the tribe, is being released today due to credit for time served. He had been jailed since his arrest last November.

Vernon King. Photo from Facebook

A total of 15 people were charged in connection with the October 9, 2014, incident at the casino. Most of the defendants, who were employed as police officers by McDonald's faction, have pleaded guilty to lesser charges.

Vernon King, who was treasurer of McDonald's faction, has not reached a plea deal. He has been released from jail and is due back in court in November.

The leaders of two other factions of the tribe have formed a "unity council" in hopes of reopening the casino.

Get the Story:
Tex McDonald sentenced in Chukchansi casino takeover, will be released Friday (The Fresno Bee 7/3)
Tex McDonald to be released Friday (Your Central Valley 7/2)
Tex McDonald sentenced for armed takeover of Chukchansi casino (KFSN 7/2)