Soboba Tribal leader Robert Salgado was hospitalized Saturday in intensive care.

Salgado was admitted at the Loma Linda University Medical Center's Intensive Care Unit for an undisclosed ailment, said hospital spokeswoman Jemellee Ambrose.

Tribal officials declined to discuss Salgado's condition or cause of illness.

"This is such a very private matter for our family. Everyone's prayers and concern are very much appreciated," Salgado's sister, Rose Salgado, said in a statement.

Salgado intermittently has led the Soboba tribe, east of San Jacinto, for more than 30 years since he was first elected in 1976. He has long fought diabetes and walks with a cane, but has said his health has not affected his leadership.

In October, Salgado was charged in a 36-count indictment on charges that he accepted $250,000 in bribes to pay his personal debt in exchange for contracts at the Soboba Casino and the reservation. He pleaded not guilty. A trial date is scheduled for May 7.

Salgado stepped down as chairman pending the outcome of the charges.

Salgado has been a revered and controversial figure in the Inland region during his tenure.

In a now-resolved 2008 showdown with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, the sheriff called for the casino's gaming license to be suspended when Salgado ordered deputies to identify themselves before entering the reservation.

He was also credited with attaining water rights for the tribe in a landmark settlement with the U.S. government.

Reach John Asbury at 951-763-3451 or jasbury@pe.com