Navajo Nation weighs tougher sentences for some crimes

Thursday, May 16, 2013  

The Navajo Nation is holding public hearings to discuss changes in criminal sentencing.

In 2000, the tribe eliminated or reduced the punishments for nearly 30 offenses, The Farmington Daily Times reported. Navajo Nation Council delegates are now seeking to impose fines, jail time and other types of sentencing for those crimes.

"If you commit a crime, you should pay for it," council delegate Russell Begaye told the paper.

The crimes affected include making a threat, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, carrying a deadly weapon, theft, shoplifting, fraud, forgery and possession of liquor.

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Navajo Nation may stiffen crime penalties (The Farmington Daily Times 5/16)