Ex-employee of Grand Traverse Band blames theft on gambling addiction

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

The Grand Traverse Band operates the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Acme, Michigan. Photo from Facebook

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A Michigan man who worked for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians for more than 14 years says he stole from the tribe to fund his gambling habit.

Michael Gerard Buchanan, 52, pleaded guilty to one count of theft from a tribal organization. As director of information technology for the tribe, he admitted that he purchased electronic equipment using tribal funds and sold the items without authorization.

"Because of his addiction, he violated the trust of his employer and stole a significant amount of money from his employer to facilitate his gambling habit," Buchanan's attorney wrote in a sentencing memorandum.

Buchanan was ordered to pay more than $233,000 in restitution to the tribe but his attorney told the court that he doesn't have the funds at the money.

Documents do not state where Buchanan gambled the money.

Get the Story:
Gambling addiction that spurred $233K theft from tribe brings prison (WZZM 4/12)

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