Suit: Chief refused to leave role after impeachment

NARRAGANSETT, R.I. (AP) – Rhode Island’s Narragansett Indian Tribe is suing its chief sachem of nearly two decades, alleging he refused to give up his position following his impeachment last month, which stemmed from reports he may be a Florida resident.

The lawsuit filed in federal court on Thursday seeks a court order forcing Matthew Thomas to surrender his position.

Thomas tells The Providence Journal he’s “rolling with the punches.” He says a previous tribal court ruling involving a disputed election is being ignored.

Members of the tribe’s executive board voted to impeach Thomas after an investigation revealed he obtained a Florida driver’s license and registered to vote there. Records show Thomas also owns a home in The Sunshine State.

Chiefs must live in Rhode Island or within a 50-mile radius.