Louisiana State Police investigating financial misconduct claims at Coushatta Casino
Louisiana State Police confirmed its gaming division is investigating allegations of financial misconduct at the Coushatta Casino Resort in Kinder, according to reporting by Louisiana Illuminator. The inquiry involves former tribal chairman Jonathan Cernek and former casino employees Todd Stewart and Paula Corliss.
An independent audit and internal documents allege Cernek used a casino credit card without tribal approval to build and furnish his personal home. Cernek resigned as chairman in August 2024. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs have also reviewed the casino’s finances, according to Louisiana Illuminator.
Separately, local and tribal police are investigating a gunshot fired late Sunday into the home of current Chairman David Sickey. No injuries were reported, but the tribe reported that a bullet entered the bedroom of Sickey’s child, who was asleep at the time.
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