Impeachment Trial for Oklahoma Tribal Governor Begins

Associated Press

CONCHO, Oklahoma -- The governor of the Cheyenne-Arapaho American Indian tribe has started her defense during her impeachment trial.

Gov. Janice Boswell arrived 10 minutes late Thursday on the first day of the trial that's being held before the eight-member tribal legislature and more than 30 tribal members.

Boswell is charged with 12 counts of breaching the tribe's constitution. Those bringing the charges say Boswell didn't submit a budget on time, signed contracts without authorization from the tribal council and removing people from their tribal posts, such as Lt. Gov. Leslie Harjo.

Boswell told them that she feels like she is doing the best job she can do. The tribe's executive counsel, Amber Bighorse, says Boswell inherited a corrupt government when she became governor in January.