This isn't the first time Jurrius has been said to have withheld information from tribal leaders. Two members of the Business Committee in a 2003 lawsuit accused him of failing to respond to their financial questions. They found themselves suddenly ousted from their elected positions later that year.

Jurrius continues to refuse comment on any questions involving his dealings as the tribe's financial adviser, saying that news reports are "biased" against him. He previously has said that he is doing what tribal members want, including the withdrawal of tribal funds from government accounts.

Unanswered questions

The tribe has 407 producing oil and gas wells, according to the Utah Division of Oil, Gas and Mining. When Jurrius' was hired in 2001 as the tribe's financial adviser, his contract gave him a 10 percent share of every deal he negotiates for them, for as long as the venture makes money. Some believe his share may have increased since the original agreement was signed.

Jurrius was hired by the Northern Utes in Fort Duchesne after leaving the employ of the Southern Utes in Ignacio, Colo. In addition to his 10 percent windfall on investments, his contract stipulates a salary of $50,000 a month.

His contract also includes a "hold harmless" clause, freeing him from any lawsuits should the tribe ever have reason to take legal action against him.

Should Jurrius leave the Ute Tribe when his five-year contract ends this year, he will continue to be tied to them financially — with revenues from every deal brokered for them while in their employ. With gas prices around $80 a barrel and producers eager to work with the Ute Tribe to get approval to drill on their lands, the Ute Tribe is making Jurrius a wealthy man.

Plenty of tribal members support Jurrius. Gloria Thompson said she speaks for many when she says she believes Jurrius is the only reason the tribe is on firm financial ground right now and has a bright future.

For about two years now, Ute elders have been getting $1,500 a month as part of the rewards of Jurrius' financial plan. Those ages 55 to 65 receive a $200 monthly dividend, which is attributed to Jurrius.

Many believe that if Jurrius were to leave, the payments and money — which come from the Ute Tribe — would somehow disappear.

Cuch does applaud Jurrius for giving the tribe a stronger voice in their oil and gas dealings with companies and by starting up Ute Energy, a tribally owned oil and gas production company. But it is the secrecy involved in all aspects of tribal finances under Jurrius' leadership, and the way those who question him are dealt with, that concerns her.

"People should have a right to ask questions," Cuch said. "But there are threats and people are blackballed."

Finance details