In a stunning development in the ongoing battle for a casino license in Pope County, Gulfside Casino Partnership has filed a lawsuit claiming that the Cherokee Nations coerced a judge and members of the quorum court to award them the license unfairly.
The lawsuit, filed in Pope County Circuit Court, alleges that the Cherokee Nations used their considerable influence and resources to sway Judge Ben Cross and members of the quorum court to their side. Gulfside Casino Partnership, who had previously been awarded the license by the outgoing county judge, alleges that they were the rightful winners of the license and that the Cherokee Nations resorted to underhanded tactics to secure it for themselves.
According to the lawsuit, representatives of the Cherokee Nations met privately with Judge Cross and members of the quorum court in an attempt to persuade them to overturn the previous decision and award the license to the Cherokee Nations instead. The lawsuit further alleges that the Cherokee Nations offered financial incentives and other benefits to the judge and members of the quorum court in exchange for their support.
Gulfside Casino Partnership is seeking to have the decision overturned and the license awarded to them as originally planned. They are also seeking damages for the alleged coercion and interference in the licensing process.
The lawsuit has sent shockwaves through Pope County and the surrounding area, with many residents expressing outrage at the allegations of corruption and underhanded dealings. The case is likely to be closely watched by residents and stakeholders in the casino industry, as the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the future of gaming in the region.
Representatives of the Cherokee Nations have denied the allegations made in the lawsuit, calling them baseless and without merit. They have stated that they followed all appropriate procedures in their bid for the casino license and that they are confident in the fairness of the process.
As the legal battle continues to unfold, both sides are gearing up for a fierce fight to determine who will ultimately be awarded the coveted casino license in Pope County. Stay tuned for updates as the case progresses.
