A disputed leader of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians won't have to return to court until November in connection with the closure of the California tribe's casino.
Vernon King, who was treasurer of one faction of the tribe, is one of four defendants remaining in the case. He's accused of taking part in a clash at the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino last October.
Eleven other defendants pleaded guilty for their roles in the incident. Included is Tex McDonald, who was the chairman of the same faction as King.
McDonald admitted to one count of felony false imprisonment. He will be sentenced to 16 months but since he's been in jail since November it's expected he will be released in July.
King, who has been described as suffering from diabetes, was released from jail last month. His preliminary hearing is set for November 16, The Sierra Star reported.
The tribe is entering its eight month of life without the casino. A so-called unity council is working with the National Indian Gaming Commission
in hopes of resolving a notice
of violation and a temporary closure order.
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Prelims set in Chukchansi raid for November 16 in Madera
(The Sierra Star 6/4)
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