GREAT FALLS, Mont. (AP) - Three Blackfeet tribal leaders have been indicted on charges they held illegal big-game hunts on the northwestern Montana reservation for country music stars including Josh Thompson and Justin Moore.

Supporters of Jay St. Goddard (san-go-DAHR'), Jay Wells and Gayle Skunkcap Jr. say the charges are politically motivated.

The three were arraigned Tuesday on six counts that include conspiracy, theft from a tribal government receiving funds and making false statements. They pleaded not guilty.

St. Goddard is a former Blackfeet Tribal Business Council member who was kicked off the body last year over the hunts. Wells is a suspended councilman and Skunkcap was the tribe's fish and game director.

A dozen tribal members traveled to Great Falls to support the men. They say the charges stem from an internal power struggle.

More From Newstalk KGVO 1290 AM & 98.3 FM