The St. Regis Mohawk Tribe of New York is suing Gov. David Paterson (D) and Franklin County over a treaty from 1796.

The tribe says the Treaty with the Seven Nations of Canada set aside 6 square miles for the Mohawks. The lawsuit claims the state and the county are trying to assert jurisdiction over an area known as the Hogansburg Triangle.

"The Tribe provides municipal services to the Hogansburg Triangle, including road construction, water, sewage and trash collection for both Indians and non-Indians in the area. The Tribe also licenses business in the area. The Tribal Police Department polices the area and the Tribe also funds fire and emergency services. The fire station, built with Tribal funds, is located within the Triangle," the complaint states, Courthouse News Service reported.

Get the Story:
Mohawks Tell State & County to Butt Out (Courthouse News Service 8/10)

Relevant Documents:
Complaint: St. Regis Mohawk Tribe v. Paterson (August 5, 2009)