The former Executive Director of the Tohono O’odham Nation’s Tribal Housing Association has been sentenced to one year in prison on embezzlement and tax evasion charges. 52-year old Loren Goldtooth of Tuba City must also make restitution to the Tohono O’odham Ki:Ki Association of $52,239, and cooperate with the IRS in resolving his outstanding tax obligations.

Investigators say that between February of 2000 and August of 2002, Goldtooth received $34,831 in overtime payments to which he was not entitled, and that he also used his Ki:Ki Association credit cards for unauthorized personal expenses totaling $17,861.

“Senior tribal officials who are in a position of trust in their communities should keep the well-being of their constituents ahead of their own,” said U.S. Attorney Diane Humetewa. “Those who use public funds for their own personal gain will be held accountable.”