A South Dakota official said the US Department of Justice will take steps to address the public safety crisis on tribal lands.
On Friday, US Senator Mike Rounds announced the DOJ will issue a number of proposals requested by tribal leaders in South Dakota.
I just received word that the Department of Justice has heard the concerns of tribal leaders in South Dakota and are taking steps to address the public safety crisis.
— Senator Mike Rounds (@SenatorRounds) October 11, 2024
Following the meeting that my office facilitated with Attorney General Merrick Garland in South Dakota, the DOJ… pic.twitter.com/veGH0W6C02
US Attorney General Merrick Garland visited South Dakota in August. During that meeting, tribal officials told Garland there was a need for increased public safety and justice funding.
Rounds said that’s included in a list of potential changes relating to tribal public safety.
Rounds said the DOJ intends to hold formal consultation sessions with tribes to determine the final path forward.
He said he is confident the proposals could advance public safety in South Dakota’s reservations.