Mashpee Tribe Offers Show of Support for Chairman Charged in Thefts

One week after pleading not guilty to two felony counts of theft, Mashpee Wampanoag Chief Brian Weeden is back at work today amid a show of support from the tribe.

Chief Whedon, 30, has been on paid leave since early December 2022, when he was identified as a suspect in the theft of cultural items from the Plymouth Patuxet Museums in Plymouth, Massachusetts. From $1,200, according to the Plymouth County Court.

Weeden pleaded not guilty to the charges in Plymouth County Court on January 5.

At a tribal council meeting last night — on the last day of Weeden’s paid leave — the tribal council members discussed the situation with their chief, according to tribal spokesperson Stephen Peters.

In a statement provided to Native News OnlineThe Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Council said the following regarding Weeden’s return from leave: “Brian Weeden was elected Chief in 2021 and has served his people consistently in that capacity since his election. Chief Weeden has worked effectively for his people in securing the land in trust, and a record amount of funding grants, strengthening cultural ties and economic development for future generations.The Mashpee Wampanoag…