(October 25, 2006)--Five of seven defendants accused in a federal criminal case of taking advantage of the Kickapoo American Indian tribe have accepted plea agreements to minor charges.

The so-called "Kickapoo Seven" were charged in a 25-count federal indictment early last year.

The group had faced charges ranging from stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from the Kickapoo tribe's casino to laundering money.

Those who pleaded guilty Tuesday were former tribal chairman Raul Garza, former tribal manager Isidro Garza, Jr., his wife Martha Garza, his son and former state representative Timoteo Garza, and former casino manager Lee Martin.

The five accepted charges that carry up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The trial was moved from Eagle Pass to Waco after the defendants cited a conflict of interest involving the original judge.

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