Warm Springs tribes defend official's removal

WARM SPRINGS, Ore. - In a rare public statement, the tribal council of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs on Wednesday defended its removal of its secretary-treasurer, saying Jake Suppah falsely claimed the tribal government was close to bankruptcy.

Jake Suppah told The Bulletin last month he had uncovered troubling financial patterns, including theft of time, mismanagement of federal grants and missing funds. He said he took his concerns to the tribal council but was placed on paid leave Feb. 10, in what he claimed was retaliation for his actions.

Suppah and three tribal council members took their concerns public in an interview with The Bulletin. One of the council members, Orvie Danzuka, also contacted the U.S. Interior Department's Office of Inspector General, which confirmed to the newspaper last month it was investigating the matter, in response to a Freedom of Information Act request.

http://www.ktvz.com/news/warm-springs-tribes-defend-officials-removal/32394912