Pine Ridge authorities say increased law enforcement, not ICE, on reservation
As the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation deals with what the Oglala Sioux Tribe President has called a ‘catastrophic breakdown of law and order,’ area law enforcement is alerting the public that they’ll see increased law enforcement, but not ICE.
By News Channel NebraskaPINE RIDGE, S.D. - As the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation deals with what the Oglala Sioux Tribe President has called a ‘catastrophic breakdown of law and order,’ area law enforcement is alerting the public that they’ll see increased law enforcement, but not U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Nationwide, fears of ICE raids remain high following executive orders signed by President Donald Trump targeting immigration. In Arizona, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren recently addressed unverified reports that some tribal members were being questioned and detained by immigration officials.
“My office is looking into this matter and will provide updates as they come. For now, here are some tips from the American Civil Liberties Union if you are questioned by law enforcement or immigration agents. Please be safe, aware of your surroundings, and carry valid forms of identification with you including your Certificate of Indian Birth, your state-issued driver’s license, or other forms of identification,” said Nygren.
Despite national concerns, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety (OSTDPS) has confirmed that ICE is not operating on Pine Ridge. Instead, increased officer presence will come from OST, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the FBI, and U.S. Marshals, in response to rising violence on the reservation.
"We believe that an increased officer presence will help discourage crime and provide reassurance to our Oyate” said Police Chief Danielle Means.