Former pueblo governor, developer plead not guilty

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) – The former governor of the Santa Ana Pueblo and a real estate developer from Pecos have pleaded not guilty to charges they embezzled at least $3.6 million from a group formed by the state’s 19 pueblos to develop the old Albuquerque Indian School property.

Federal agents Tuesday arrested 58-year-old Bruce Sanchez and 59-year-old developer Thomas Keesing on a 15-count indictment that charges both men with one count of conspiracy and 10 counts of embezzlement. Additionally, Sanchez was charged with four counts of tax evasion.

Both have been released on their own recognizance. Sanchez’s attorney, Monnica Garcia, tells the Albuquerque Journal says she believes her client is innocent.