Claude Allen, a former White House and former Health and Human Services official, was arrested last week on charges that he stole more than $5,000 in merchandise from Washington, D.C.-area retailers.

Allen was the former deputy secretary at HHS. He earned praise from tribal leaders for his commitment to consultation. He also visited the Navajo Nation.

President Bush nominated Allen for a federal judgeship but he never got a vote in the Senate. He then moved over to the White House, where he served as domestic policy adviser to the president on health care and other issues.

"Claude Allen brings a real breath of fresh air and expertise in Indian issues to the White House," former NCAI president Tex Hall said in March 2005 after tribal leaders met with Bush administration officials.

Friends, colleagues and even Bush said they were shocked to hear of the charges against Allen. He is accused of fraudulently obtaining refunds for merchandise he did not return. He is denying the allegations.

Get the Story:
Former Top Bush Aide Accused of Md. Thefts (The Washington Post 3/11)
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Arrest of Ex-Bush Aide Shocks Associates (The Washington Post 3/12)
Former White House Aide Is Arrested on Theft Charges (The New York Times 3/11)
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Former Aide's Arrest Surprises Friends and Colleagues (The New York Times 3/12)
President Shocked by Arrest of Former Adviser (AP 3/12)
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Press Release:
Gaithersburg Man Arrested for Theft Scheme (Montgomery County Department of Police 3/10)

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HHS official won't commit to funding increase (11/19)
Top health service official visiting Navajo Nation (11/17)