The former director of construction administration for the Choctaw Nation is expected to testify in his own defense on charges of theft, tax fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering and bribery.
Jason Merida is on trial in federal court in Muskogee for allegedly telling contractors to make regular contributions to golf tournaments and trail rides hosted by former Chief Gregory Pyle's re-election campaign. He has pleaded not guilty.
Current Chief Gay Batton testified Tuesday that he twice warned Merida not to take gifts from vendors or to allow the offers to impact his judgment.
Batton acknowledged under cross examination that he failed to disclose several trips and gifts he received from a contractor. Batton said he forget to list the items on an ethics statement filed with the tribe.
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