'The strikes occurred a significant time ago. The district attorney and the judge decided to dismiss the strike enhancements. He also had two prior strikes on his criminal record.

McDonald faced up to life in prison if charged with the original counts that included assault and kidnapping. That was my goal,' said David Linn, Madera County District Attorney. 'I felt we can work an agreeable deal where the people would be safe, where people could go onto the Indian property and be safe, and where the rule of law would prevail. The Madera County District Attorney says he read the case and determined one felony count of false imprisonment was appropriate. Tex McDonald received a sentence he expected Thursday, but one his attorney says brought him great relief. But, the plea deal will make him a free man for independence day. McDonald is 65-years-old and has spent 9 months in jail because of his prior criminal history and the initial felony charges, he was eligible for life in prison.

But on Friday, he goes free because the judge gave him credit for time already served. Tex McDonald had faced 27 counts for his role in an armed takeover of the casino. (KFSN) - A former Chukchansi tribal leader has been sentenced to 16 months in jail after reaching a deal with prosecutors. A former Chukchansi tribal leader has been sentenced to 16 months in jail after reaching a deal with prosecutors.įRESNO, Calif.

Chukchansi casino resort