“The Navajo Nation banned alcohol from its reservation more than a century ago. But that hasn’t stopped people from drinking and in more recent years, doing drugs.The lack of jobs makes bootlegging and dealing meth, marijuana and cocaine all the more appealing. More substance abuse has led to a surge in violent crimes. And the tribe’s police officers say they’re overwhelmed.” L. Morales, Fronteras
Excerpt: Diné College to train police officers, The Navajo Times
“Diné College is developing a plan to train police officers and establish a new police academy, according to a press release from the college. The initiative stems from a June 28 meeting between Diné College leaders and the Navajo Nation’s Law and Order Committee. Navajo Nation Police Sgt. Stanley Ashley stated at the meeting, The lack of police officers is a huge concern.
Navajo Nation police officers meet at Dine’ College for an academy status update. Photo: Tribal college
Inspired by the committee’s commitment to this imperative, Diné College is immediately pursuing a historic multi-state compact to fast-track the preparation of a significant number of new police officers for the Navajo Nation, the release states. The college will partner with communities, institutions, and other key entities in the states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.
This plan, according to the release, will develop and implement a memorandum of understanding among all key stakeholders which will be centered on providing tailored educational services to prepare law enforcement professionals — as well as on securing land, facilities, equipment, and technology required to establish a state-of-the-art Navajo Nation Police Academy.”
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Former Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly
“When I was growing up I remember a Navajo hungry or thirsty another Navajo will pick him up and feed him give him water,” What’s today’s world? You get beat up or you get killed. These are Navajos I’m talking about. Society is changing.” ~Former Navajo President Ben Shelly~
