The Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians in California said members of a large family are under investigation for theft and misappropriation of funds.

Chairman Andy Freeman said the tribe met with state and federal officials to inform them of an investigation into the Henthorne/Pata family. He claims more than $1 million has gone missing.

“Now that law enforcement is involved, we are going to allow the legal process to work while we focus on the health of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians and its businesses,” Freeman said in a press release.

Members of the Henthorne/Pata sat in tribal leadership positions and employment positions within the tribe's business operations. They were reportedly suspended at a general council meeting on April 12.

“The tribe’s general council has taken decisive actions against those who have stolen and misappropriated tribal assets and will pursue all legal avenues for restitution," Freeman said.

Get the Story:
Tribe investigates misappropriation of funds (KRCR 4/30)
Authorities investigating suspected theft of $1M in North State tribal funds (The Redding Record-Searchlight 5/1)

Related Stories:
Paskenta Band suspends family during contentious meeting (4/23)
Paskenta Band says leadership issues won't affect casino (4/22)