Associated Press
SPOKANE — The vice chairman of the Spokane Tribe has resigned under pressure from tribal members.
The Spokesman-Review reported that Rodney W. Abrahamson resigned Thursday.
Abrahamson had been convicted of five misdemeanors after he illegally killed two bison north of Yellowstone National Park in February. Montana wildlife agents say he lied about his identity and claimed to be a member of the Nez Perce Tribe, which has treaty rights to hunt bison.
The Spokane Tribe’s constitution said council members cannot remain in office if convicted of a felony or of a misdemeanor involving dishonesty. Abrahamson was convicted of obstruction as a result of providing a false identity.
After he refused to resign, some tribal members launched a recall effort.
A special election will be held in June to select his replacement.