HAVRE, Mont. (AP) – The Chippewa Cree Tribe will hold a special election next month to choose a new chairman after Raymond “Jake” Parker Jr. resigned.

Parker resigned last month a day before pleading guilty to federal theft charges.

Parker was accused of charging nearly $60,000 to a tribal credit card between 2009 and 2010, mostly on unauthorized personal charges.

The Havre Daily News reports that the tribal council on the Rocky Boy's Indian reservation will hold a special election on July 5.

A statement from the tribe says it is regrettable that Parker is in this situation but his achievements in office will always be recognized.

Parker has agreed to repay the tribe.

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Information from: Havre Daily News, http://www.havredailynews.com