(The Center Square) – One Wisconsin lawmaker is asking the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewas to reimburse the town of Lac du Flambeau more than $600,000 after what he calls an “illegal shakedown” related to payments for the use of roads on the reservation.
Republican Congressman Tom Tiffany, 7th Congressional, sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi asking for the return of the payments, which he called “extortion,” as the tribe charged monthly installments in an attempt to regain access to four roadways that the tribe had roadblocked.
The tribe had asked for $20 million from the town for access.
A federal judge recently ruled that the roads be opened for public use and that the 50 non-tribal landowners could use the roads.
The roads were blocked Jan. 31, 2023, cutting off access until the town began monthly payments to the tribe.
“I am asking the Department of Justice to investigate this matter and seek compensation from the tribal government to reimburse the town,” Tiffany wrote. “Not only did the town hand over in excess of $600,000 as part of this illegal shakedown, it also incurred significant legal expenses and administrative costs associated with responding to the actions of tribal leaders and the Biden administration’s BIA.”
Lac du Flambeau has a population of 3,000 and was heavily impacted by the payments, Tiffany said, stating in the letter the town “saw its finances pushed to the absolute limit by the unlawful standoff created by the reckless and irresponsible actions of the tribal government.”
Tiffany said that he believes the tribe should be held accountable. Tiffany has been considering a run for Wisconsin governor but has not yet declared he is entering the race.
