LAS VEGAS
The crisis of missing or murdered Indigenous persons (MMIP) in Native American communities continues to worsen, with the Justice Department’s efforts to address the issue coming under intense scrutiny.
As the country observes National MMIP Awareness Day on May 5, the DOJ’s track record on keeping promises to Native American communities is marred with failures. Despite Attorney General Merrick B. Garland’s pledge to “double down” on efforts to tackle the crisis, the numbers remain grim.
The MMIP Regional Outreach Program, which was launched last July, has permanently placed 10 attorneys and coordinators in five designated regions across the United States. However, critics argue that the program is too little, too late.
“The MMIP crisis is a stain on our nation’s conscience,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “There is still so much more to do in the face of persistently high levels of violence that Tribal communities have endured for generations.”
Garland’s words were echoed by U.S. Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada, who said, “We know that government-to-government partnerships are critical to improving the safety and well-being of Tribal communities. This is why, throughout the year, our office meets with Tribal leadership, Tribal law enforcement, and community groups to hear challenges, share resources and information, and strengthen our relationships.”
However, experts argue that the DOJ’s efforts are insufficient, pointing to the lack of resources and funding dedicated to addressing the crisis. “The MMIP crisis is not just a law enforcement issue, it’s a social justice issue,” said a Native American community leader. “We need systemic change, not just a Band-Aid solution.”
The MMIP Regional Outreach Program prioritizes MMIP cases consistent with the Deputy Attorney General’s July 2022 directive to U.S. Attorneys’ offices promoting public safety in Indian Country. However, critics argue that the program is too focused on investigation and prosecution, rather than prevention and support for victims and their families.
Nevada is home to 28 federally recognized tribes, bands and communities located on 31 Indian reservations and colonies. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has resources, including a Tribal Liaison, dedicated to promoting safety and security on tribal lands.
As the MMIP crisis continues to deepen, the Justice Department’s response remains inadequate. It’s time for the DOJ to take meaningful action to address the root causes of the crisis and provide genuine support to Native American communities.
In a statement, FBI Director Christopher Wray said, “The FBI remains unwavering in our pledge to work with our law enforcement partners to address the violence that has disproportionately harmed Tribal communities and families.” However, experts argue that the FBI’s efforts are also insufficient, pointing to the need for greater resources and support for Tribal law enforcement agencies.
The DEA’s response to the MMIP crisis is also under scrutiny, with critics arguing that the agency’s focus on interdiction and enforcement is not addressing the root causes of the crisis. “DEA’s top priority is protecting all communities from deadly drugs, like fentanyl, and drug-related violent crime,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. However, experts argue that the DEA’s efforts are not sufficient to address the scale of the crisis.
In the face of mounting criticism, the Justice Department’s MMIP response remains a work in progress. As the nation observes National MMIP Awareness Day, it’s clear that more needs to be done to address the crisis and provide genuine support to Native American communities.
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Key Facts
- State: Nevada
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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