Former Mashpee Wampanoag Leader Admits to Tax Fraud in Corruption Case

Former Tribal Chairman Pleads Guilty to Tax Fraud

Cedric Cromwell, the former chairman of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, has admitted guilt in federal court to four counts of filing false tax returns. This development brings further closure to a prolonged corruption investigation surrounding the tribe’s stalled casino venture in Taunton. Cromwell previously faced sentencing related to bribery and the misappropriation of tribal funds.

Cromwell Faces Significant Legal Consequences

At 60 years old, Cromwell acknowledged failing to report approximately $177,000 in income to the IRS over a span from 2014 to 2017. Much of this unreported income was connected to his role as chairman of the tribe’s Gaming Authority during the development phase of the First Light Resort and Casino project, a controversial initiative that encountered numerous setbacks.

The undeclared earnings included payments and perks he obtained while allegedly favoring a private architectural firm involved with the casino project. Cromwell’s attorney highlighted his client’s desire to bring the lengthy legal matter to an end, stating that he and his family look forward to resolution.

Sentencing is scheduled for November 5. Possible penalties include up to 42 months in prison, one year of supervised release, and restitution exceeding $270,000. This restitution comprises $61,000 owed to the IRS and nearly $210,000 to the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. Additionally, an $800 mandatory special assessment will be imposed.

The Impact on the Tribe’s Casino Project

The legal issues surrounding Cromwell began in 2020 when federal prosecutors charged him with accepting bribes from David DeQuattro, head of a Rhode Island architectural firm. DeQuattro’s company had secured a valuable role as the owner’s representative for the tribe’s casino project. Cromwell was alleged to have received personal benefits in exchange for ensuring the continuation of this contract.

During court proceedings, Cromwell expressed remorse for his actions. He was convicted of bribery in 2022, though some charges were initially dismissed but later reinstated by the US Court of Appeals in 2024.

While the tax fraud guilty plea closes this chapter of legal troubles, the First Light Resort and Casino remains incomplete. Once envisioned as a milestone for tribal economic growth, the project now stands as a cautionary example marked by mismanagement and controversy.