Prominent Chief Wahoo protester pleads guilty to stealing federal money meant for Native Americans

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A prominent activist known for his opposition to the Cleveland Indians' Chief Wahoo mascot pleaded guilty Wednesday to stealing more than $77,000 in federal grant money meant to benefit Native Americans in Northeast Ohio.

Robert Roche, 71, of Cleveland, pleaded guilty to two counts of theft of government funds. Federal prosecutors say he embezzled Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration grant money awarded to the Parma-based American Indian Education Center, where he served as executive director.

Federal authorities said he used the money to pay personal expenses.

Roche and the U.S. Attorney's Office agreed to recommend a sentence of between 10 and 16 months in federal prison, though both sides can also ask for the judge to vary up or down from that range. Roche also agreed to pay back the money he stole.

Read more: https://www.cleveland.com/court-justice/index.ssf/2018/05/prominent_chief_wahoo_proteste_1.html