Leader of Fond du Lac Band decries 'lynch mobbing' in casino spat

Monday, March 14, 2016

THe Black Bear Casino Resort in Black Bear Casino Resort, Minnesota. Photo from Facebook

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The interim chairman of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa of Minnesota is responding to allegations that he misused tribal casino resources to promote his election bid.

Wally Dupuis acknowledged hiring the same printing company as the one used by Black Bear Casino Resort. But he said he paid for his campaign mailers out of his own pocket and said other candidates have used the same firm.

"I have never used my political position or authority to carry out discipline to band members or employees of the band. I feel what has happened to a few employees at the casino is completely wrong and unjust," Dupuis said in a statement to WDIO and NNCNOW.com.

Dupuis was referring to Misty St. Germaine, the casino's director of operations, and Todd DaFoe, the director of marketing. Both have had their gaming licenses suspended by the tribal business committee and have denied any wrongdoing.

"I want to thank all of those people who have supported me through out this lynch mobbing and please know you can come in and see me at any time and I would be glad to answer any questions you may have," Dupuis said in his statement.

Dupuis has been leading the tribe since the departure of Karen Diver, who now works at the White House. He's officially filed for the chairman's post and is also seeking his District 1 seat.

The accusations against Dupuis and the casino employees originated from Danielle Martineau, who is also running for the District 1 seat.

The tribe's primary takes place April 5. The general election will be held June 14.

Get the Story:
Black Bear Casino Managers Deny Wrongdoing; Fond du Lac Tribal Chairman Calls it 'Lynch Mobbing' (WDIO 3/12)
Black Bear Casino employees speak out about license suspension (NNCNOW.com 3/11) Related Stories:
Chairman of Fond du Lac Band denies gaming license was revoked (3/11)