Cherokee Nation Marshal Service says it faces threat from United Keetoowah Band “Lighthorse”
The Cherokee Nation Marshal Service (CNMS) says it faces a threat from the United Keetoowah Band (UKB). In a recent open letter, the CNMS said that absent any legal rights or authority, the UKB is running their own law enforcement agency called “Lighthorse” outside of their jurisdiction. The say the Lighthorse possesses no legal authority …
The Cherokee Nation Marshal Service (CNMS) says it faces a threat from the United Keetoowah Band (UKB).
In a recent open letter, the CNMS said that absent any legal rights or authority, the UKB is running their own law enforcement agency called “Lighthorse” outside of their jurisdiction.
The say the Lighthorse possesses no legal authority to make traffic stops, investigate crimes, or act as sworn public safety officers on the 7,000-square-mile Cherokee Nation Reservation–a reservation where joint agreements with local sheriffs, municipalities and prosecutors have provided public safety and accountability for generations–and this should concern all Oklahomans, whether they are tribal members or not.
Several law enforcement agencies including Sheriff’s Offices in Ottawa, Craig and Delaware Counties, have signed on to the statement by the Cherokee Marshall’s Service.
The CNMS says the presence of the United Keetoowah Lighthorse creates jurisdictional issues, questions about the rule of law and a public safety threat. The letter cites the example of a recent DWI case in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.
The CNMS says it will not interact with the United Keetoowah Band Lighthorse in any manner.
NewsTalk KZRG has reached out to the United Keetoowah Band for a response.
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