Billie testifies in tribal theft case

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2002

Update: A federal judge today threw out all the charges against the three men.

Ousted Seminole chairman Jim Billie testifed in federal court on Monday about his role in the Florida tribe's risky business deals.

Billie testified that he was behind a controversial Internet gambling venture. He said he set it up in secret and authorized millions of dollars to be spent.

Federal prosecutors allege three former associates of Billie stole that money, about $2.7 million. The defense hopes Billie's testimony shows that no theft was involved.

Get the Story:
Billie: I OK'd Internet gambling (The Miami Herald 12/17)
Tribe leader: I approved all spending (The South Florida Sun-Sentinel 12/17)
Billie says he okayed gambling project (The St. Petersburg Times 12/17)
Update: Trio cleared as judge tosses Seminole fraud case (The South Florida Sun-Sentinel 12/17)

Relevant Links:
Seminole Tribe - http://www.seminoletribe.com

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