RAPID CITY - The trial began Tuesday in the case of a former Oglala Sioux Tribe vice president charged with stealing more than $22,000 from the tribe in 2004.

Eileen Janis is charged with theft from a tribal organization.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mara Kohn said in opening statements that Janis became involved in a "financial snowball" after she started using cash advances available to tribal employees.

Kohn said OST employees are allowed to take payroll advances, which Janis did, then got in way over her head with spending.

Kohn said Janis owes the tribe more than $22,000.

Gary Colbath Jr., Janis' attorney, admitted that his client got in over her head but said she intended to pay back every penny.

Colbath said Janis did not get the opportunity to do so because in late 2004, she was fired.

"Just simply owing the tribe money is not a crime," Colbath said.

Janis faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and as much as $250,000 in fines if convicted.

Kim Colhoff, a former OST payroll supervisor, and David Rabbit Sr., former OST treasurer, were also charged in the case.

Colhoff pleaded guilty Monday and will be sentenced in January. Rabbit pleaded guilty in August and was sentenced to probation and $10,000 in restitution.

Janis' trial continues today.

U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier is presiding over the trial.

Contact Katie Brown at 394-8318 or katie.brown@rapidcityjournal.com