Muskogee Police Department Updates Policies In Light Of Landmark Supreme Court Ruling

The Muskogee Police Department is updating its policies and procedures to make sure they line up with federal law after a landmark Supreme Court ruling last week.             

Beginning Thursday, during any kind of enforcement contact, Muskogee police officers will ask potential victims and suspects if they are enrolled member of any federally recognized tribe.            

Last week the Supreme Court ruled the Oklahoma does not have the jurisdiction to prosecute a tribal citizen for crimes that happen on tribal land. The high court ruled a large chunk of eastern Oklahoma remains an Indian reservation.             

The Muskogee Police Department said its working to make sure the rights of Native Americans are protected. It’s coordinating with Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse police to help things go smoothly.           

Lighthorse Acting Police Chief Daniel Wind III said his department looks forward to continuing working with local law enforcement agencies in patrolling their shared communities.

"We are better working together, and the commitments we are making as we move forward from this landmark decision will only strengthen and enhance public safety for all Oklahomans," Wind said.               

The Muskogee Police Department said all Muskogee police officers are cross-deputized with the Lighthorse Police. It said that will help officers in determining where jurisdiction lies in each case.