A shadow has fallen over the Coushatta Casino Resort as Louisiana State Police investigate allegations of financial misconduct and a disturbing firearms incident. The investigation, currently ongoing, plunges the resort into a complex web of scrutiny and raises serious questions about its internal operations.
This isn’t the first time the Coushatta Tribe has faced federal investigation. Previously, the FBI and the National Indian Gaming Commission scrutinized Jonathan Cernek, the tribe’s former chairman, for undisclosed actions. Now, Cernek and others are central figures in this expanded financial probe.
The situation escalated dramatically with a shooting at the home of current Coushatta Tribe Chairman, David Sickey. A single shot pierced the window of a child’s bedroom late at night, narrowly avoiding injury. Law enforcement recovered a bullet slug from the scene, launching a parallel investigation into the brazen act.
Months of investigation have focused on the resort’s financial dealings, implicating not only Cernek but also key personnel. Paula Corliss, the former purchasing manager, and Todd Stewart, who held the positions of general manager and chief financial officer, are now under intense scrutiny.
Evidence surfaced during an independent audit requested by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor, revealing potential misuse of credit cards. Todd Stewart himself provided the documentation that triggered further investigation into questionable financial practices.
The National Indian Gaming Commission responded swiftly, demanding the Coushatta Tribe’s casino oversight panel review the licenses of both Stewart and Corliss. Ultimately, neither license was renewed, signaling a loss of confidence in their oversight.
The Commission’s letter regarding Stewart’s license detailed serious concerns. He allegedly failed to report suspected fraud to external auditors and withheld crucial information from a potential lender considering a $150 million investment in a casino construction project.
The unfolding investigation paints a picture of potential systemic issues within the resort’s financial controls. The combination of alleged financial irregularities and the unsettling shooting creates a climate of uncertainty and demands a thorough accounting of events.
