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Feds Tighten Grip On Lower Brule’s Money Amid Investigations

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The Bureau of Indian Affairs plans to change the way it sends money to South Dakota’s Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, amid allegations of financial mismanagement by the tribe in recent years.

The Argus Leader reports ( ) the BIA plans to distribute money for social services and other programs on a monthly basis, rather than in a lump sum on Oct. 1 as is typically done.

Federal auditors are examining nearly $20 million in grants to the tribe in response to a human rights organization’s report this year alleging financial mismanagement in the tribal government. Interior Department officials have said the audits are meant to make sure the money is being spent and handled correctly, and are not criminal inquiries.

Now-deceased Chairman Michael Jandreau has denied any wrongdoing by the tribe.

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Information from: Argus Leader,