Tribe loses court decision over Lansing casino plan

LANSING (AP) -- A federal judge suddenly has put the brakes on plans for an American Indian casino in Lansing. Judge Robert Jonker in Grand Rapids granted Michigan's request Tuesday for a preliminary injunction against the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. The tribe wants to build a $245 million casino in the capital city and has support from Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero. Other tribes and top state officials oppose the projects. The injunction means the Sault tribe can't ask the federal government to put land in trust for the casino. The state says the tribe has failed to reach revenue-sharing agreements with other tribes. The Sault tribe says it's not required to share money. The tribe says the injunction simply is one step in a long process. Published: Thu, Mar 7, 2013