Central Wisconsin News

Wisconsin Representative Tom Tiffany has accused the Lac du Flambeau Tribe of blocking roads, demanding $20 million, and forcing the town to pay $600,000. He has called on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to recover these funds after a judge ruled the Tribe's actions illegal.

"The Lac du Flambeau Tribe blocked roads, demanded $20M, and forced the town to pay $600K to restore access," said Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-Wi). "I've called on the DOJ to get that money back for the town after a U.S. District Judge ruled the Tribe's actions illegal. No community should face extortion like this."

According to a press release, Congressman Tiffany sent a letter on August 19 to Attorney General Pam Bondi, urging the DOJ to ensure that the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians reimburses the town of Lac du Flambeau for what he described as an "illegal shakedown."

Rep. Tom Tiffany's post | X

On January 31, 2023, the tribal government reportedly blocked public access to four roads with barricades. This action stranded residents, limited access to medications, and hindered emergency services. Tribal leaders demanded $20 million from the town, which paid over $600,000 in installments to restore access. A U.S. District Judge later barred the Tribe from restricting access to these roads.

Tiffany said: "I am asking the Department of Justice to investigate this matter and seek compensation from the tribal government to reimburse the town. Not only did the town hand over in excess of $600,000 as part of this illegal shakedown, it also incurred significant legal expenses and administrative costs associated with responding to the actions of tribal leaders and the Biden administration’s BIA. The town of Lac du Flambeau – a small community with a population of just over 3,000 people – saw its finances pushed to the absolute limit by the unlawful standoff created by the reckless and irresponsible actions of the tribal government."

Tiffany represents Wisconsin's 7th Congressional District and was elected in May 2020 during a special election. He grew up on a dairy farm near Elmwood, Wisconsin, and holds a degree in agricultural economics from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. Before serving in Congress, Tiffany was part of both the Wisconsin State Assembly and State Senate where he focused on tax reduction, job creation, and protecting Second Amendment rights.