11. Policing and Law Enforcement Issues
Jurisdictional confusion and inadequate federal resources for tribal policing create significant challenges in law enforcement. Tribal law enforcement agencies often face staffing shortages and limited funding, hindering their ability to effectively address crime within their communities. For example, a 2021 report highlighted that tribal law enforcement agencies have limited resources to investigate cases of missing or murdered Indigenous women, leading to inadequate responses to such critical issues. (gao.gov) Many communities resist federal intervention, advocating for direct support and greater control to enhance safety and justice. The Government Accountability Office has identified systemic barriers that prevent tribes from accessing federal programs and funding, exacerbating these challenges. (gao.gov)
