Shot Fired at Coushatta Tribal Leader’s Home

(KMDL-FM) Authorities in Jeff Davis Parish, along with law enforcement officials with the Coushatta Tribal Police and federal agencies, say they are investigating an incident in which a shot was fired into the home of Coushatta Tribal Chairman David Sickey.

The incident is believed to have happened around 11 pm on Sunday, November 2nd. Coushatta Tribal Police say they were called to Sickey's residence to investigate what was described in some media reports as an "act of violence perpetrated against the Chairman and his family."

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Based on information made available at the scene, the single shot entered Sickey's residence through his child's bedroom window. The child was sleeping at the time and was not injured. Evidence recovered at the scene included the bullet that penetrated the residence.

When Was David Sickey Elected Chairman of the Coushatta Tribe?

Sickey was elected as Tribal Chairman in June of this year.

This report of violence comes as the Coushatta Casino Resort has been mentioned at the center of a federal investigation into the activities of a former tribal leader who is alleged to have misused casino funds for personal benefit.

According to various media reports, the federal investigation is centered around Jonathan Cernek. The allegations suggest that Cernek used casino credit cards to build and furnish his home. The National Indian Gaming Commission also ordered the Coushatta Tribal Gaming Commission to suspend the license of former casino general manager and CFO Todd Stewart.

What Allegations Have Been Made Against Former Coushatta Tribal Leadership?

The allegations against Stewart suggest that he failed to report suspected misuse of gaming revenues. Also, an independent audit by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor determined that tribal leadership had been lax in properly tracking credit card use. That investigation suggested that more than $100,000 in purchases were made using those instruments, yet they were not accounted for.

It is unclear if there is any connection between these ongoing investigations and the reports of violence against the current Coushatta Tribal Leadership. The Jeff Davis Sheriff's Department, the Coushatta Tribal Police, and Federal Investigators working on this incident are asking the public for tips and information.

If you believe you have information that could assist investigators in this case, you're urged to contact JDPSO (337) 824-3850 or the Coushatta Tribal Police (337) 584-1457.