The tribal council of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation has announced it will hold a special election Tuesday, July 5, to fill the position vacated by Raymond “Jake” Parker Jr.

    Parker resigned May 23, one day before pleading guilty in federal court in Great Falls to embezzling from the Tribe. He is out without bail and is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 15.

    Parker had charged nearly $60,000 to a tribal credit card, admitting that most of the charges were for his personal use.

    A press release said the council passed a resolution Thursday declaring the position vacant and calling on the tribe’s election committee to call for a special election.

    The release said that, although he was being investigated, Parker was never formally charged while he remained in office.

    “It’s regrettable that (he) is in this current situation, but all the positive things he had achieved while in office will be forever recognized and praised,” the release said.