Duane Big Eagle, the chairman of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, remains in office despite facing bribery charges in federal court.

Tribal members are circulating a petition to remove Big Eagle from office. The tribal council also could try to remove Big Eagle but hasn't taken action since his indictment in October.

Big Eagle recently won election as chairman by 11 votes. He defeated Brandon Sazue, who was the victim of retaliation by other tribal leaders who were convicted of bribery charges.

Big Eagle faces charges in the same scheme. He is being accused of accepting bribes in connection with the construction of a new school on the reservation, according to the indictment.

For unexplained reasons, Brendan Johnson, the U.S. Attorney in South Dakota and his entire office are recused from the case. It's being handled by the U.S. Attorney in Montana.

Get the Story:
Trial date set for embattled leader of area tribe (The Mitchell Daily Republic 12/15)
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Relevant Documents:
Indictment: US v. Big Eagle (October 12, 2010)

Related Stories:
US Attorney recused in Crow Creek Sioux Tribe chairman's case (10/14)
Duane Big Eagle, chairman of Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, arrested (10/13)
Editorial: No more controversy for Crow Creek Sioux Tribe (5/6)
Crow Creek Sioux Tribe inaugurates leader after close vote (5/5)
Ousted Crow Creek Sioux Tribe chair challenges election (4/23)
Crow Creek Sioux chair loses reelection bid by 11 votes (4/20)
Crow Creek Sioux Tribe removes leaders after guilty pleas (3/30)