Seven former leaders of the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians made their first court appearance on Wednesday after being charged with 39 counts of theft, conspiracy and obstruction of justice.

The seven former leaders are accused of using tribal funds for personal purposes. According to the indictment, they bought gifts, sports tickets, airline tickets and other items with gaming revenues meant for the entire tribe.

Tribal members ousted the indicted leaders in December 2004.

Get the Story:
Ex-officials post bail in tribal fraud case (AP 8/31)
Mendocino Tribal Leaders In Court On Theft Charges (CBS News 8/30)

Relevant Links:
Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians - http://www.coyotevalleytc.com

Related Stories:
Former Coyote Valley leaders indicted on 39 counts (8/30)
Coyote Valley chairwoman ousted in primary vote (12/03)
Coyote Valley Band in leadership struggle (10/22)
Police raid casino offices, chairwoman's home (05/26)