Santa Ana Star Casino Lawsuit Sent to Tribal Court

#1 Casino Choice of U.S. Players
Blackjack • Slots • Tables • Live Dealer • Video Poker • Crypto
$3,000 Casino Welcome Bonus!
$3,750 Crypto Welcome Bonus!  BOVADA CASINO

November 20, 2013

A ruling made by a judge may be appealed. The ruling allowed for New Mexico state courts to no longer handle lawsuits of personal injury that happen at tribal casinos. The lawsuits would instead be sent to the tribal courts.

In 2006 there was a fatal accident involving a motor vehicle. A family was at the Santa Ana Star Casino attending a wedding reception. The family continued to be served alcohol after they were intoxicated. The accident occurred when the family left and drove on I-25. The car rolled and killed 2 people. A surviving member of the accident is a plaintiff in the lawsuit against the casino management company, Tamaya Enterprises.

The Pueblo of Santa Ana tribe own Santa Ana Star Casino.

The lawsuit was filed in the state's District Court. This was due to the gaming compact between the state and the tribe.

In September a judge ruled that jurisdiction for the lawsuit should fall under the tribal courts instead of the state courts due to federal Indian gambling law.

A notice of appeal has been submitted to the U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Return to New Mexico Casinos.