The treasurer for the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians of Oklahoma has returned a $2,500 bonus to the tribe.

Treasurer Ella Mae Worley was among a group of tribal leaders who received bonuses following approval of the tribe's land-into-trust application. But she told The Tahlequah Daily Press that she gave the money back.

Two council members, who each received $1,000, also reportedly returned the bonus. In total, the Daily Press said $34,000 went to tribal leaders, including $5,000 each for Chief George Wickliffe and Assistant Chief Charles Locust.

Get the Story:
Treasurer says she didn’t speak to fired UKB employee (The Tahlequah Daily Press 11/9)

Bureau of Indian Affairs Documents:
May 24, 2011, Decision | September 10, 2010, Decision

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