The sheriff in Benewah County, Idaho, has deputized five officers from the Coeur d’Alene Tribe but says he will revoke the agreement if they cite non-Indians in tribal court.

Sheriff Bob Kirts said he deputized the officers because they work well with the county. He had previously refused to work with the tribe, prompting a huge debate in the Idaho Legislature about a law enforcement bill that failed by one vote in February.

Kirts recently met with the tribe to discuss the issue but he said he will continue to oppose efforts that would force cross-deputization.

Get the Story:
Five tribal cops deputized (The St. Maries Gazette-Record 4/26)

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