This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Gallup, N.M. • Law enforcement agents and prosecutors on the Navajo Nation have joined forces to advocate for the creation of a public safety fund to help deal with an increase in violent crime.
The Gallup Independent reports (http://bit.ly/1lKttWL) authorities say criminals have been getting more aggressive and do not fear prosecution because they are aware of the shortage of police officers, prosecutors and judges. The public safety fund would help hire more people to fill these positions.
The call for more reinforcement comes after Navajo Nation Police Officer Houston Largo was shot and killed after responding to a domestic disturbance call in March.
Navajo Nation lawmakers are considering legislation that would create the public safety fund with money earned from a $58 million court settlement for the tribe. It has support from President Russell Begaye.