SAN CARLOS, Ariz. — The San Carlos Council, governing body of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, has announced the hiring of a forensic accounting firm to review the Tribe’s funeral assistance program.
Read more Pedestrian killed after being hit by semi-truck on Phoenix freeway
The move follows Motion No. 232-2026, passed on May 14, 2026, which also placed four employees connected to the program on paid administrative leave. Officials emphasized that no wrongdoing has been alleged against the employees.
The review, expected to take several weeks, will examine financial records tied to the program. Once completed, findings will be shared with tribal members, and the Council will determine any necessary actions based on the results.
Established in 2019, the Funeral Assistance Program provides critical financial support to families who have lost enrolled tribal members or qualifying relatives, such as spouses or siblings. It remains a vital resource for the community during times of loss.
Tribal leaders reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that the review is part of ongoing efforts to ensure all funds are managed responsibly.
While the audit is underway, the Tribe stated that it will not release additional details due to the personnel-related nature of the matter and the complexity of the review.
Operations and services across the Tribe will continue without disruption during the audit process, officials said.
Read more 2-year-old in ‘extremely critical condition’ following near-drowning in Avondale
>> Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.
Watch 12News for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12+ app!
The free 12+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like “Today in AZ” and “12 News” and our daily lifestyle program, “Arizona Midday”—on Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV.
12+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for “12 News KPNX.”
Amazon Fire TV: Search for “12 News KPNX” to find the free 12+ app to add to your account, or have the 12+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.
Read more Phoenix veteran searches for missing dog needing lifesaving medication