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The Board of Directors voted at its meeting on April 7, 2026, to terminate the employment agreement with Tribal Court Chief Judge Charles Palmer, effective immediately.

This decision was the result of unacceptable conduct from the bench and a series of court decisions that were contrary to the tribe’s sovereignty and could have diminished the tribe’s ability to properly defend its sovereign status going forward. The board determined that this conduct was in violation of the employment agreement entered between the tribe and Judge Palmer.

The board authorized the tribal chairman to execute necessary contracts, subject to board review, to find judges to handle the Tribal Court cases while they initiate a search for a new chief judge. The Board of Directors staff will work with Tribal Court staff to ensure there is as limited disruption to court services as possible.

Board Statement April 8, 2026