After months of repeated written questions and public records requests from NPR and the Mountain West News Bureau, Interior Department officials said they now plan to contract with an outside agency to examine the troubles plaguing tribal detention centers.
The National Congress of American Indians has urged the federal government to place medical personnel in its tribal jails, arguing that the current situation "exacerbates the already challenging problem of health disparities for American Indians."
Willy Pepion had a cracked skull, and guards at the federal jail on the Blackfeet Reservation dismissed his pleas for help. He died in his cell. Three hours went by until anyone noticed.
Since 2016, at least 19 people have died in tribal detention centers overseen by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Several died after correctional officers failed to provide proper medical care.
Native American tribes are more dependent on federal dollars than many other communities. As the shutdown continues, Navajo Nation President Russell Begaye is asking Congress to exempt tribes.
