Content can be accessed directly.
Cedric Cromwell, the former Chairman of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, and entrepreneur David DeQuattro have recently been found guilty of bribery. Their convictions stem from a federal jury trial that investigated their involvement in the casino development project in Taunton, Massachusetts.
Cromwell was convicted of:
- Engaging in bribery as a representative of an Indian tribal government;
- The act of coercing or obtaining something illegally by abusing one’s authority or position.
- Conspiracy to commit extortion.
DeQuattro was convicted for offering bribes to an agent of an Indian tribal government.
United States Attorney Rachael Rollins stated that the principle of no one being above the law remains relevant and evident today. She emphasized that the recent guilty verdict illustrates how the jury recognized the case as a classic instance of public corruption.
How the tribal resort project played a role in the scandal
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe in Massachusetts has been consistently progressing with their plans for a $1 billion resort state casino project in Taunton.
In 2016, the groundbreaking ceremony for the casino, named First Light, took place. The project encompasses various amenities such as casino gaming, a hotel, dining options, entertainment venues, shopping facilities, and even a water park. However, the development has encountered numerous obstacles, facing setbacks, opposition, and legal challenges throughout the years.
In December, First Light made significant progress as the tribe’s affirmed status was granted by the Biden Administration, gaining momentum.
Despite the project, the accusations against Cromwell and DeQuattro continue to cast a negative shadow.
Between 2015 and 2017, DeQuattro, the owner of a Rhode Island architecture firm, engaged in contracts worth $5 million with Cromwell, the previous chairman of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe in Massachusetts.
Cromwell’s involvement in the criminal bribery charges stems from his acceptance of three bribes from DeQuattro over the course of three years.
- In November 2015, DeQuattro issued a personal check amounting to $10,000 which was subsequently deposited by Cromwell into the bank account of his company, One Nation Development LLC. The company defines itself as one that assists in tribal economic development.
- In August 2016, DeQuattro acquired a pre-owned Bowflex exercise equipment worth $1,700. As per Cromwell’s request, DeQuattro arranged for its delivery to Cromwell’s residence.
- Cromwell requested that DeQuattro cover the expenses for his accommodation at Harbor View at Seaport Boston Hotel for three nights in May 2017. DeQuattro agreed and paid a total of $1,800.
According to Rollins, it is evident that the two defendants’ actions during this specific timeframe were motivated by personal gain and involved criminal behavior.
According to Rollins, Mr. Cromwell and Mr. DeQuattro engaged in a business agreement driven by bribery, solely to satisfy their personal and illegal interests.
Accepted bribes were an ‘abuse’ and an ‘affront’ to the tribe
In 2020, Cromwell faced an indictment for charges of bribery and extortion, leading to his removal from the position of tribe chairman.
According to Rollins, Mr. Cromwell took advantage of both his position and the trust that the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe had placed in him.
Cromwell’s actions as chairman of the tribe were condemned by Joseph Bonavolonta, the FBI’s special agent in charge, who described them as an “abuse of his elected position.”
According to Bonavolonta, the orchestrated quid pro quo scheme with David DeQuattro was a disrespectful act towards the Tribe who had chosen him to prioritize their welfare.
Additionally, he emphasized that this case exemplifies the FBI’s duty to combat government corruption with firm resolve.
Bonavolonta emphasized the FBI’s unwavering commitment to investigating elected officials who exploit their positions for unlawful activities. Safeguarding the integrity of government at every level is our utmost priority, ensuring protection against the detrimental effects of public corruption.
Tribal members ‘disappointed’ in former chairman
Brian Weeden, the new chairman of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, referred to Cromwell’s case as a regrettable episode in the tribe’s history.
In a statement, Weeden expressed the disappointment of tribal members towards Cedric Cromwell, emphasizing the significant amount of trust they placed in their elected officials and how Cedric had violated that trust.
Not the first Mashpee Wampanoag tribal chairman to face federal conviction
Regrettably, Cromwell is not the initial Mashpee Wampanoag chairman to face scrutiny for federal offenses.
In 2008, Glenn Marshall, the former tribe chairman preceding Cromwell, admitted his guilt in committing fraud, embezzlement, and violating campaign finance laws.
Weeden has expressed the tribe’s intention to reevaluate their longstanding pursuit of a casino in light of the consecutive tribal scandals. Rather, he aspires for the tribe to prioritize the healing of their nation.
Cromwell and DeQuattro could face up to 20 years in prison
If someone is found guilty of bribing an Indian tribal government agent, or if they are caught accepting a bribe in the same capacity, the consequences can be severe. They may face a prison sentence of up to 10 years in addition to a substantial fine of $250,000.
Both the offenses of extortion under color of official right and conspiring to commit extortion carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
U.S. Senior District Court Judge, Douglas P. Woodlock, will impose sentencing for Cromwell and DeQuattro on September 9.
Related Articles
