Wampanoags Sue Former Tribal Leaders

The Mashpee Wampanoags have filed a complaint in tribal court in an attempt to recoup about $400,000 current leaders say was embezzled by a trio of former tribal officials.

Former tribal council Chairman Glenn Marshall as well as two others are named in the civil complaint filed last month in the newly established tribal court.

Marshall is serving a federal prison sentence after pleading guilty in 2009 to bilking the tribe out of nearly $400,000, and using the money to make illegal campaign contributions and for personal purchases.

The other two defendants were never charged, but the lawsuit says they conspired with Marshall.

Current tribal council Chairman Cedric Cromwell tells the Cape Cod Times he is obligated to get the money back.

Marshall's wife was critical of the suit.