Law
U.S. Attorney: Lack of opportunity behind crisis


The Minneapolis Star Tribune interviews Thomas Heffelfinger, the U.S. Attorney for the state of Minnesota, about law enforcement problems affecting Native youth. He says he is encouraged by cooperation between tribal, state and federal officials but that "any long-term improvement will have to include increased opportunities -- job opportunities -- for the people living in those communities."

Heffelfinger is leading a team that is reviewing the criminal jurisdiction system in Indian Country for the Department of Justice. At a law conference last month he said the current system is a "national shame."

Get the Story:
Q&A: Thomas Heffelfinger (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 5/2)
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