For Immediate Release ~ January 19, 2006
Contact: Shawn Pensoneau ~ (202) 632-7003

Washington DC, January 19, 2006 — The Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) issued a notice of violation against Marc Dunn, Oklahoma Management Enterprises, Inc., Native American Enterprises & Resource Management, Inc. and several other companies owned by Mr. Dunn.  Mr. Dunn and his companies managed and operated the Quapaw Casino & R.V. Resort, without a management contract that was approved by the NIGC Chairman in violation of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) and NIGC regulations.  Such action is a substantial violation of the Act. 25 C.F.R. § 573.6(a)(7).  

The Quapaw Tribe, a federally recognized Indian tribe, owns the Quapaw Casino & R.V. Park which is located in Miami, Oklahoma.  Last year, the tribe agreed to a stipulated notice of violation and civil fine assessment regarding the same circumstances; directed Mr. Dunn and his companies to cease managing and operating its casino; and committed to refraining from any type of relationship regarding Indian gaming with Mr. Dunn, Oklahoma Management Enterprises, Inc., and other companies associated with Mr. Dunn.

Approval of management contracts between tribes and third parties is essential to ensure that tribes are the primary beneficiaries of Indian gaming and to shield tribes from organized crime and other corrupting influences.  The management contract approval process includes background investigations and criminal history checks to determine the suitability of the individuals and companies that are managing Indian casinos.    Chairman Hogen stated “Without such suitability determinations, tribes are taking a tremendous risk by allowing such companies into their casinos.” 

The NIGC is an independent regulatory agency established within the Department of the Interior pursuant to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988.

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