Ho-Chunk Legislature puts Rep. Pettibone on leave

By: Associated Press//June 17, 2011//

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BLACK RIVER FALLS, Wis. (AP) — The Ho-Chunk Nation Legislature has placed a representative on administrative leave until federal bribery charges against him are resolved.

Clarence Pettibone of Black River Falls was among three people charged in a 14-count indictment this week with bribery in connection with contracts awarded by the Ho-Chunk Nation.

Pettibone’s term in the Ho-Chunk Legislature ends July 5, and he did not seek re-election. His leave is expected to last until his legislative term expires.

Ho-Chunk Nation Vice President Daniel Brown says the Legislature wanted to move “swiftly and fairly to protect and ensure the integrity” of the tribal government and businesses.

Pettibone’s home phone was not answered Friday. His attorney, Marcus Jens Berghahn of Madison, said Pettibone intends to plead not guilty and “looks forward to vindicating his name in court.”

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