On Friday, the US Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts announced that Cedric Cromwell, the previous chairman of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe and head of its gaming operations, pleaded guilty to four counts of filing false tax returns. This development marks another chapter in the extended legal saga involving Cromwell and the tribe.
Cromwell, who failed to report more than $177,000 in income on his federal tax returns from 2014 to 2017, is linked to the tribe’s First Light Resort and Casino project in Taunton, Massachusetts. Approximately two-thirds of the unreported income was related to this ongoing casino project, which has been in development for a decade, while the rest came from unrelated side deals.
At 60 and a resident of Attleboro, Cromwell entered his plea in federal court in Boston. His sentencing is scheduled for November 5 before US District Court Judge Nathaniel M Gorton. He faces a potential penalty of up to three years in prison, a year of probation, and a $100,000 fine for each charge. Additionally, Cromwell is awaiting sentencing for three extortion charges and one conspiracy to commit extortion charge. These charges, initially dismissed by a lower court in 2022, were reinstated by the First Circuit Court of Appeals in September 2024.
The extortion charges carry severe penalties, potentially totaling up to 20 years in prison, three years of probation, and a $250,000 fine per count.
Cromwell was originally indicted in November 2020 alongside David DeQuattro, the CEO of development firm RGB Architects. Allegations surfaced that Cromwell conspired with RGB to act as the “owner's representative” for the casino project, reportedly receiving over $57,000 from DeQuattro between 2014 and 2017 for a lucrative development contract. Authorities also identified approximately $45,000 in unreported income from a former architectural partner, whose identity remains undisclosed. Prosecutors stated that Cromwell received gifts like a home gym and a hotel suite vacation from DeQuattro as part of these dealings.
In November 2020, the FBI announced Cromwell's arrest, alleging he used his tribal position to enrich himself through extortion. Joseph Bonavolonta, the special agent in charge of the FBI Boston Division, accused him of abusing his role for financial gain rather than serving the tribe's interests.
Both Cromwell and DeQuattro were convicted of bribery in May 2022, although the tax charges were separated from this ruling. After Cromwell's appeal, all his charges were reinstated, while DeQuattro was acquitted of all charges in 2024. Now deemed more the victim of extortion, DeQuattro noted the clarity gained through circumstances, emphasizing the revelation of true character among peers.
In the interim, the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe has continued to face challenges in advancing the casino project amid Cromwell’s legal troubles. The tribe received federal recognition in 2007, and in 2012, Taunton signed an Intergovernmental Agreement to facilitate the First Light casino development, which was expected to feature 3,000 slot machines and 150 table games.
However, more than a decade of legal obstacles followed, complicating the project. Rulings regarding the project’s legality fluctuated over time. As of mid-2023, detailed accounts of these legal challenges can be found on PlayMA.com. Finally, in 2024, the tribe achieved a legal victory, announcing plans for a temporary “welcome center” in Taunton.
Amidst these developments, Genting, which is financing the casino project and partnering with the tribe, has overseen improvements in their relationship after prior conflicts due to legal difficulties. Kevin Jones, Genting Americas' chief strategy officer, attended the opening of the temporary center in January, which aims to inform the public about the tribe and its gaming plans.
Initially, the center featured 10 slots, but it has since expanded to 50, adjusted its operating hours, and obtained an alcohol license. An updated arrangement with the city could allow for growth to 250 slots. While the center is now referred to as a “casino,” if it becomes permanent, it would still be significantly smaller than what was initially outlined in the agreement back in 2012 during Cromwell’s leadership.
