A former judge for the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona was sentenced to 90 days home detention, five years probation and was ordered to return $36,188 she took from a tribal scholarship fund.
Darlina C. Mercado, 43, pleaded guilty to theft from a tribal organization. She applied for, and received, money from the Gila River Indian Community Education Scholarship without ever intending to attend college.
A former tribal employee, Jacqueline Boni, awaits trial on charges that she helped Mercado steal money from the scholarship fund.
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Gila River judge must return stolen funds
(The Arizona Republic 7/20)
Former Gila River judge ordered to return funds
Thursday, July 20, 2006
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