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Pine Ridge

Occupation Peoples

Grass Roots Oyate

January 16, 2000

Until we Win

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

January 17, 2000

RED CLOUD TRIBAL BUILDING, PINE RIDGE INDIAN RESERVATION, SOUTH DAKOTA:

On January 17, 2000 at 10:00 a.m., a group of concerned Grass Roots Oyate (people) met with representatives of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to determine what action, if any, the Federal Government will take against the corrupt Oglala Sioux Tribal Treasurer and Council Members.

Hundreds of tribal members filed into the cramped office space to tell their stories to the federal agents. Stories of land stealing, homelessness, poverty, tribal law enforcement abuses, lack of accountability from elected officials. Two hours later, the FBI agents were growing weary and requested a break to speak with media on the scene.

The Grass Roots Oyate took control of the Tribal Office on Sunday, January 16, 2000 for the sole purpose of protecting the files from tampering. The Grass Roots Oyate, consisting of tribal members - young and old, have stated that they will retain control of the building until their demands (see attached) are met. This group feels that this action is long overdue and has demanded the immediate removal of Oglala Sioux Tribal Treasurer Wesley "Chuck" Jacobs for gross misconduct and mismanagement of tribal funds. Additionally, the Grass Roots Oyate is seeking the removal of Tribal Council Representatives who are involved in the corruption of this tribal government.

At the close of today's meeting, the FBI agents informed the Oglala people that they have acquired some financial records already from unnamed sources and an investigation is underway. They stated that they are not at liberty to elaborate on this investigation but added that they are investigating various programs within the Tribe and they hope to conclude this process soon.

The FBI stated that they will return to the Red Cloud Tribal Building on Tuesday, January 18, 2000 to hear further testimony.

For further information, please contact Dale Looks Twice or Floyd Hand at (605) 867-5303.

As with all my emails concerning the Occupation Peoples please forward to any and all interested parties in its entirety

Wadv

Wild Horse

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