Former chairman of the Quapaw Nation John Berrey’s bid to regain political power lies in tatters today. That’s following the tribe’s decision to disqualify him from seeking re-election as tribal vice-president.
John Berrey has been accused of corruption and embezzlement and kicked out of the election process. He went on the offensive this week. (Image: Arkansas Business)
Berrey led the Nation for 20 years, presiding over its economic transformation into a major player in Oklahoma’s tribal gaming industry. But he faces criminal complaints in the Quapaw Tribal Court, where he is accused of multiple counts of conspiracy, theft, and abuse of office.
Quapaw Nation charges former leader and others with embezzlement
Quapaw Nation charges former leader and others with embezzlement
JOHN BERREY: Former Quapaw leader charged with embezzlement.
The
Quapaw Nation, owner of the Saracen casino in Pine Bluff, announced today criminal charges and a civil complaint against
John Berrey, the former leader of the tribe, and other former tribal officials for misspending millions for unauthorized pay and bonuses and using casino proceeds for personal purposes.
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Berrey, who was ousted as tribal leader last year and planned to seek tribal office again this year, sent an email response to KOSU:
“The latest events are just more efforts to defame. It was posted the day filing for candidacy opened and it’s an attempt to stop me. I look forward to clearing my name and running for vice chairman of the Quapaw Nation and begin to heal our Nation.”