Skip to Content
AP National Business

2 artists charged with faking Native American heritage

KVIA
By
Published 3:30 PM

By GENE JOHNSON
Associated Press

SEATTLE (AP) — Two artists are facing federal charges that they faked Native American heritage to sell works at downtown Seattle galleries. Lewis Anthony Rath, of Maple Falls, and Jerry Chris Van Dyke, also known as Jerry Witten, of Seattle, have been charged separately with violating the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said Rath falsely claimed to be a member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, and Van Dyke of the Nez Perce Tribe. The goods included masks, totem poles and pendants sold at Raven’s Nest Treasure in Pike Place Market and at Ye Olde Curiosity Shop on the waterfront. Their attorneys said Friday they did not have any immediate comment.

Article Topic Follows: AP National Business

Jump to comments ↓

Associated Press

Related Articles

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KVIA ABC 7 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content