Two people who pleaded guilty for their roles in the Jack Abramoff scandal appear to be backtracking on their actions on behalf of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, The Hill newspaper reports.

Ann Copland, a former aide to Sen. Thad Cochran (R-Mississippi), admitted she accepted meals, concert tickets and other items from Kevin Ring, one of Abramoff's associates. But his lawyers claim the gifts didn't influence her actions on behalf of the tribe.

Robert Coughlin II. a former Department of Justice official who pleaded guilty, also took actions to benefit the tribe. But he denies being influenced by the gifts, according to Ring's attorneys.

A third person, David Ayres, the former chief of staff to former attorney general John Ashcroft, helped the Choctaws too. But he is expected to assert his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination if called as a witness in Ring's trial.

Ring has been indicted on 10 felony counts of fraud, conspiracy and obstruction of justice. He is accused of plying lawmakers, their aides and government officials with gifts and of defrauding tribal clients, most notably Sandia Pueblo of New Mexico.

Jury selection began yesterday. Opening arguments are expected on Friday.

Get the Story:
Abramoff associate's trial a K Street test (The Hill 9/9)

Relevant Documents:
DOJ Opposition | Indictment: US v Ring

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