Tribal Police Chief Fred Paquin Suspended

Fred Paquin, chief of police for the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, has been suspended from his job indefinitely, with pay, by Tribal Chairman Aaron Payment, because of allegations that have not been made public.

The suspension was an administrative decision. The tribal board of directors was informed Tuesday morning, August 28, the day the suspension began.

Two sergeants will oversee the tribe's law enforcement during Mr. Paquin's absence, according to the tribe.

Mr. Paquin, of St. Ignace, was named chairman of the tribe's Greektown Casino August 10 by the casino board, replacing Mr. Payment, who challenged the surprise move. The decision was affirmed by the full tribal board Tuesday, August 21, in an 8-3 vote.

Mr. Paquin's suspension came seven days later.

The Michigan State Police Post in Sault Ste. Marie, which is investigating the matter, refused to comment on the issue, and would not say whether the allegations are job-related.

Mr. Paquin was unavailable for comment before press time.