Ariz. tribal leader pleads guilty to theft

PHOENIX (AP) — One of the leaders of a northern Arizona Indian tribe has pleaded guilty to stealing nearly $300,000 in tribal funds.

San Juan Southern Paiute Vice President Evelyn James also admitted Wednesday to money laundering and making false statements.

According to a federal indictment, the 54-year-old Tuba City resident wrote herself tribal checks totaling $300,000 while she was tribal president.

The indictment also accuses James of telling the government that the tribe had hired three police officers using federal funds when it hadn't. The Arizona U.S. Attorney's office says the tribe wrongfully received nearly $225,000 in grant funds.

James previously told The Associated Press that she did nothing wrong.

She faces up to 25 years in federal prison on the charges.

Sentencing is set for Sept. 28.