The Muscogee Nation

Category: News Release

  • Chief Judge Roger Wiley Receives the Judicial Excellence Award

    Chief Judge Roger Wiley Receives the Judicial Excellence Award

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Chief Judge Wiley is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma (1978) and the New Mexico School of Law (1985)

    OKMULGEE, Okla.— On October 24, 2023, Chief Judge Roger Wiley of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court was presented with the Judicial Excellence Award by the National American Indian Court Judges Association (“NAICJA”). The award banquet took place at the NAICJA 54th Annual National Tribal Judicial and Court Personnel Conference at the River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  The award recognizes excellence and dedication in the courtroom, which Chief Judge Wiley possesses with his background as a litigator, a prosecutor, and as a judge.  Chief Judge Wiley has 38 years of experience practicing law and counseling tribal governments, local governments, election boards, and citizens.

    Chief Judge Wiley is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma (1978) and the New Mexico School of Law (1985). He began his career at the Stipe Law Firm and went on to become a prosecutor for the Taos County District Attorney’s Office in New Mexico.  He also served as the City of McAlester Prosecutor from 1995-2022 and a Judge for the City of Krebs (2016-2022).

    He was first appointed to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Supreme Court in 1995, where he served for 10 years and was also on the Board of Directors for the NAICJA.  He served as the Attorney General for the Muscogee (Creek) Nation for three separate Tribal Administrations, which makes him the longest serving Attorney General ever.  He has also been extremely active in Indian Country, serving as a Judge at the Chickasaw Code of Federal Regulations Court, Tribal Court (1999-2002), District Court Judge for the Chickasaw Nation (1999-2002), Supreme Court Justice at the Seminole Nation (2015-2022), and Supreme Court Justice for the Quapaw Nation (2018-Current).   He has also served on a federally sponsored Tribal Court Assessment Team that helps to determine the needs of Tribal Courts around the country.  He has also been involved in many very prominent Indian Law cases such as McGirt v. Oklahoma, Dollar General v. Mississippi Choctaw, and Muscogee (Creek) Nation v. Kialegee Tribal Town. As the Chief Judge of the District Court, Justice Wiley has led the effort to expand the resources, the staff, and the dockets of the District Court to meet the growing demands of the Court that have resulted from the historic McGirt decision of the United States Supreme Court.

    The District Court is extremely proud of Chief Judge Wiley and the recognition that he has received for his hard work and accomplishments over his distinguished career in law.  He has served his local community and Indian Country very well and the District Court staff look forward to continuing to work with him on his vision of making the Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court a model Tribal Court.

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  • Statement of Principal Chief David Hill Regarding Oral Arguments in Stroble v. Oklahoma Tax Commission

    Statement of Principal Chief David Hill Regarding Oral Arguments in Stroble v. Oklahoma Tax Commission

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Statement of Principal Chief David Hill Regarding Oral Arguments in Stroble v. Oklahoma Tax Commission

    “Laws related to taxation of income earned by Tribal citizens who both reside and earn that income on a reservation have been settled for decades, but the State of Oklahoma has chosen to ignore those laws. It should concern every resident of Oklahoma that the state feels like it can pick and choose when to follow the law. Today, it’s Alicia Stroble, tomorrow it will be someone else if the state is not held accountable.

    The State is not above the law, and it is our hope that this case will ensure the Oklahoma Tax Commission recognizes that.”

    – Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief David W. Hill

     

    Overview of Stroble v. Oklahoma Tax Commission:

    Stroble v. Oklahoma Tax Commission, involves an ongoing legal dispute between the plaintiff, Alicia Stroble, a Muscogee (Creek) citizen, and the Oklahoma Tax Commission regarding the issue of state income tax exemption for Tribal citizens residing and working within their Indian Country.

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation has filed a joint amicus brief with Seminole Nation in support of Stroble, which can be found here. Additionally, MCN was granted permission by the Oklahoma Supreme Court to participate in today’s oral arguments, represented by Riyaz Kanji.

    The Muscogee (Creek) Nation contends that the tax commissions’ claim of authority to tax Tribal citizens residing and working in Indian Country, undermines tribal sovereignty and is contrary to decades of established law.

    The dispute raises broader questions regarding the interpretation of tribal sovereignty, federal law, and the tax obligations of Tribal citizens within Indian Country. All of which hold great significance in relation to Indian Country’s autonomy.

     

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  • Statement from Principal Chief David Hill Regarding the Suspension of GRDA Commission for Muscogee (Creek) Lighthorse Officers

    Statement from Principal Chief David Hill Regarding the Suspension of GRDA Commission for Muscogee (Creek) Lighthorse Officers

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Statement from Principal Chief David Hill Regarding the Suspension of GRDA Commission for Muscogee (Creek) Lighthorse Officers

    “The suspension of this agreement is not the result of any problem with the cross-deputization agreement. Instead, this is a dangerous political ploy driven by Governor Stitt’s desire to undermine tribal jurisdiction at the expense of the most vulnerable Oklahomans.

    Our Attorney General met with the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) officials on December 22, 2023, where they expressed enthusiastic support for the benefits of working together under our cross-deputization agreement. They even began planning training events to make others aware of how well it worked.

    Since that time, the GRDA has moved to suspend this agreement pending the outcome of Governor Stitt’s planned task force. Given the absence of any substantive issues related to the GRDA commission, we are left to conclude that the suspension of this agreement results from pressure from Governor Stitt and his campaign to undermine the sovereignty of tribes and deteriorate public safety.

    It is beyond reprehensible for Stitt or any agency to play political games with the safety and well-being of Oklahoma citizens. We believe it is misguided to suspend any commission immediately. Violent criminals and those who harm others will not suspend their criminal activities, and there should be more police on the streets to address them, not less.

    Public safety is our priority, and the MCN will continue to respond to all calls for assistance and actively protect the public as consistent with all laws.”

    – Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief David W. Hill

     

  • Muscogee Nation Attorney General Issues Remarks Regarding Incident with Okmulgee County Jail Officials

    Muscogee Nation Attorney General Issues Remarks Regarding Incident with Okmulgee County Jail Officials

    For Immediate Release

     

    The Violence Against Women Act of 2022 expanded Tribal authority to prosecute non-Indians who assault tribal justice officials. Based on this authority, the Muscogee Nation has issued an arrest warrant for Matthew J. Douglas, an Okmulgee County Jail official, for the charge of Protected Status Battery of Lighthorse Police Deputy Chief Dennis Northcross.

    The incident took place at the Okmulgee County Jail on Monday, December 18, as Lighthorse Police Officers, acting under the cross-deputization commission of the Grand River Dam Authority, attempted to deliver a suspect arrested for fentanyl possession and driving recklessly in a school zone.

    On Monday, December 18, a Lighthorse Police officer witnessed a driver moving on the wrong side of the road in a school zone. The officer affected a traffic stop and requested Okmulgee Police Department to attend the incident. Okmulgee Police Department informed him of their refusal to respond.

    The officer noticed drug paraphernalia in the passenger seat and the suspect consented to a vehicle search. During a search of the suspect’s person, the officer witnessed a rubber case fall from the suspect’s waistband, which he then admitted to the officer, contained fentanyl.

    Acting under the authority of a cross deputization commission with the Grand River Dam Authority, the officer affected an arrest and, as required by state law, transported the suspect to the Okmulgee County Jail for booking and processing.

    Today, we are releasing bodycam video captured by Lighthorse Offices in the jail facility. In it you can clearly see jail officials belligerently refuse to accept a duly arrested suspect, threaten to fabricate charges against Lighthorse officers and of course the unprovoked assault on Deputy Chief Northcross.

    The video shows, Matthew J. Douglas, a jail official, telling Lighthorse Police Deputy Chief Dennis Northcross that it was the jail’s policy to not accept any suspects from Lighthorse Police. Later, you can hear jail staff say that they did not recognize Lighthorse as “real police.”

    Lighthorse Officers informed Mr. Douglas that it is a violation of state law for Okmulgee County Jail to refuse acceptance of any lawfully arrested person.

    After much debate, Mr. Douglas threatened to fabricate charges for illegally bringing a weapon into the jail and arrest Lighthorse Police officers.

    Lighthorse officers continued to explain that state law requires the jail to receive the suspect.

    Mr. Douglas then threatened to lock Lighthorse Police officers in the receiving area with the suspect in custody if they did not leave and take the prisoner. Wallace can be heard in the video using his radio to instruct jail staff “do not roll my sally port door.”

    Douglas then moved from the receiving area into the final booking area and Lighthorse Deputy Chief Northcross followed him into the control room where Deputy Chief Northcross was assaulted.

    Yesterday, after receiving the arrest warrant from the Muscogee Creek District court, three Lighthorse Offices went to inform Mr. Douglas of the warrant and provide him with the opportunity to turn himself in by 9am today.

    Lighthorse officers were met across the street from the jail in the library parking lot where they had cordial conversations to try and serve. They informed them that we simply wanted to serve him the appropriate papers. They weren’t able to do that, and because of that, it is still an outstanding warrant.

    Bodycam video of these interactions will be available for release in the coming days.

    We are having ongoing conversations with Attorney General Drummond and U.S. Attorney Chris Wilson and will be determining the best next steps.

    The assault of a Lighthorse Police Officer at the Okmulgee County Jail is the direct result of policies set by Okmulgee County officials that disregard state law. This facility is already facing an ongoing investigation by the Oklahoma State Department of Health and the Office of Juvenile Affairs for the mistreatment of juveniles in their custody, including purposefully housing juveniles with adult inmates.

    The video clearly shows jail staff explaining that it is official jail policy as directed by the administrator and sheriff to violate state law and selectively refuse prisoners. So, in addition to the prosecution of Mr. Douglas, we are in discussion with the Oklahoma Attorney General and the U. S. Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division regarding the unlawful policies and disrespect from Okmulgee County officials both here at the jail and beyond.

    We understand that the Okmulgee County officials dislike federal laws that grant tribal law enforcement jurisdiction. But those political opinions do not give Okmulgee County the right to disregard and violate laws. It certainly does not give them license to assault another police officer.

    We intend to ensure that Matthew Douglas is held accountable for his assault on Deputy Chief Northcross. But we also believe that to top officials in Okmulgee County must be held accountable for the environment of lawlessness they are creating. None of these people are above the law.

    Body camera footage can be viewed: HERE (Click)

     

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  • Statement on Dismissal of Hooper v. Tulsa

    Statement on Dismissal of Hooper v. Tulsa

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court is offering an Amnesty Program for Traffic Bench Warrants

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court is offering an Amnesty Program for Traffic Bench Warrants

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court is offering an Amnesty Program for Traffic Bench Warrants

    Okmulgee, Okla.—During the entire month of December 2023, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court is offering an Amnesty Program for Traffic Bench Warrants. To participate in the Amnesty Program, an individual with a Traffic Bench Warrant, issued by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court, must appear in person at the Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court to pay in full or set-up a 90-Day Payment Plan to remove their warrant. No appearance before a District Court Traffic Judge is required under the Amnesty Program. The District Court does not accept cash payments but does accept payments by Money Order, Cashier’s Check, or Credit Card.

    If you should have any questions, please call (918) 758-1400 and ask for the “Ticket Department”. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court is located on the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Capitol Complex at 2500 Lvmhvlkle, Okmulgee, OK 74447. Office Hours are from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

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    Download this statement

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation Files Suit Against the City of Tulsa

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Files Suit Against the City of Tulsa

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    View the full complaint (HERE).

    The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Files Suit Against the City of Tulsa

    Okmulgee, Okla.— Today, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation (“Nation”) filed suit against the City of Tulsa in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma.

    The Nation’s suit alleges that Tulsa is deliberately and unlawfully prosecuting tribal citizens for conduct occurring within the Nation’s Reservation boundaries despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in McGirt v. Oklahoma, which affirmed that the Nation’s treaty-defined reservation boundaries remain intact, and that states and their political subdivisions accordingly have no criminal jurisdiction over Indians within those boundaries absent congressional authorization.

    Tulsa’s ongoing prosecutions therefore violate federal law, infringe on the rights of Tribal citizens within the Nation’s jurisdiction, and interfere with the Nation’s federally protected right to self-government, including the functioning of its own comprehensive and robust criminal justice system.

    The Mayor of Tulsa has recently stated that litigation is not the preferable means to resolve Indian country jurisdictional issues, and the Nation fully agrees. However, Tulsa is presently asserting criminal jurisdiction over individual Indians in the state and municipal courts, and aggressively so, notwithstanding clear and binding precedent against its practices. Tulsa cannot reasonably expect the Nation to stay on the sidelines while Tulsa attacks its sovereignty within the Nation’s Reservation in cases to which the Nation is not even a party.

    Principal Chief David Hill stated: “Our Nation has always been a leader in the fight to defend tribal sovereignty. We continue to welcome government-to-government cooperation with the City of Tulsa. But we will not stand by and watch the City disregard our sovereignty and our own laws by requiring Muscogee and other tribal citizens to respond to citations in Tulsa city court because of the City’s make-believe legal theories.”

    Geri Wisner, the Nation’s Attorney General, further explained: “We filed this suit today because the City of Tulsa is willingly and knowingly violating federal law. There is no legal basis for current city policies dealing with citizens of tribal nations and we are asking the court to require the city to follow the law.”

    Today’s suit embodies these convictions, and the Nation looks forward to defending its sovereignty in federal court.

     

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  • Principal Chief David Hill Issues Statement On Allegations Regarding Tribal Tags

    Principal Chief David Hill Issues Statement On Allegations Regarding Tribal Tags

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

     

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  • Muscogee Elder Receives Replacement Home Through Housing Program

    Muscogee Elder Receives Replacement Home Through Housing Program

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

     

    Muscogee Elder Receives Replacement Home Through Housing Program

    Norma Factor, 94, is one of thirteen Muscogee citizens to receive a newly built home.

    RYAL, Okla.— From the comfort of her brand-new porch, 94-year-old Muscogee citizen Norma Factor, was presented with a symbolic key from Principal Chief, David Hill during a ceremony on October 27. The ceremony celebrated the completion of Ms. Factor’s newly built two bed, two bath, 1500+ sq. ft., ADA-style home. Factor received blessings and congratulatory words from tribal leaders, Department of Housing staff and family members, all of whom were in attendance for the celebratory occasion. Even though Mvskoke is Factor’s first language and she understands little English, the smile on her face radiated the joy she was feeling that day.

    Ms. Factor and her family are one of thirteen Muscogee families selected from a waiting list to receive a replacement home through the Muscogee Nation Department of Housing’s Alternative Housing Program. The program is aimed at providing Muscogee elders residing in rural areas with more secure and efficient housing. Ms. Factor’s mobile home was removed with her replacement home having been built in its former place.

    “These replacement homes are state-of-the-art and more energy efficient.” Director of Housing Development, Luis Flores said.

    Each home will also come with an emergency safe room located in the master bedroom.

    “In the event of an emergency, the homeowner can go straight to that room. It’s especially geared toward the elders as we don’t want them to go out in an unsafe environment,’ Flores explained.

    Electrical outlets are also installed in the safe rooms if ever the occupants must shelter inside for an extended period of time.

    According to Flores, these are the first homes built through the Alternative Housing Program since 2008 due to a lack of funds. With funding appropriated from a grant through the American Rescue Plan Act, the Department of Housing were finally able to start the program back up earlier this year. In addition, Flores says that the amount of ARPA funds received will allow them to monitor each home on a monthly basis. This will ensure their upkeep with Flores adding, “There’s no homeowner maintenance required, these homes should be in tip-top shape for at least the next ten to fifteen years.”

    For more information about the various programs and services provided by the Muscogee Nation Department of Housing, please visit their website at www.mcnhousing.com or call 918-549-2500.

     

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  • Muscogee Nation Achieves Historic First with Robotic Surgery System

    Muscogee Nation Achieves Historic First with Robotic Surgery System

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                    

    Media Contact Information: Heather Griffin

    Heather.griffin@creekhealth.org | 918-691-2076

    Muscogee Nation Achieves Historic First with Robotic Surgery System

     

    TULSA, OKLA. — On Monday, Oct. 9, Muscogee Nation’s Council Oak Comprehensive Healthcare in Tulsa, Okla., became the first Tribal health care facility in the lower 48 United States to perform minimally invasive surgery utilizing the da Vinci XI robotic surgery system.

    The da Vinci robotic surgery system allows surgeons to complete minimally invasive operations using specialized robotic instrumentation equipped to perform the same function as scissors, scalpels and forceps. Surgeons control the robotic arms of the system from a surgical console using instruments attached to their wrists and with the assistance of magnified, 3D views from miniaturized surgical cameras.

    Urogynecologist, Dr. Micah Wright, D.O.

    Dr. Micah Wright, D.O., a urogynecologist on the medical staff at Council Oak Comprehensive Healthcare, was the first surgeon to perform a procedure using Council Oak’s new da Vinci technology.

    “This robot will be a valuable resource for the Muscogee Nation Department of Health,” said Dr. Wright. “The use of the robot extends the surgeon’s vision and movement capabilities, leading to an overall more precise surgery. The major bonus, though, is it is minimally invasive. Not only are their less complications, but the recovery process is, in most cases, so much easier for the patient,” Dr. Wright said.

    In recent decades, robotic surgery has revolutionized the way surgeons perform a number of procedures. In addition to enhancing the views, precision and range of motion for surgeons, robotic-assisted surgery decreases the incidence of surgical complications for patients compared to traditional open surgery. Smaller incisions mean less risk for infection, blood loss, pain and scarring. All of these benefits add up to shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery.

    For its Council Oak debut, Dr. Wright used the robotic surgical system to perform a hysterectomy. More than 500,000 women in the U.S. have hysterectomies each year, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Women’s Health.

    Traditional open hysterectomies where physicians make a large incision in the abdomen typically require a two to three-day hospital stay and six to eight weeks for a full recovery. Robotic-assisted surgery, however, may reduce total recovery time from a hysterectomy by as much as half.

    “It is hard to believe I just had major surgery,” said Briahna Kincade, one of the first patients to utilize the new technology. “My hysterectomy was completed very quickly. I woke up from the procedure, and several hours later, I was home with my family. I have no reason to think my recovery won’t be just as easy. I’m confident that I will be back to work and participating in all the other activities I enjoy in no time,” said Kincade.

    In addition to gynecological surgeries, Council Oak physicians anticipate using the da Vinci robotic surgery technology for several minimally invasive operations, including hernia repairs and gallbladder removals.

    “The investment in this surgical system is going to transform surgical care for the Muscogee Nation Department of Health,” said Shawn Terry, Muscogee Nation Secretary of Health. “We are excited about the enhancement it offers to our surgeons and the benefits it provides to our patients. We are constantly looking for ways to provide the very best in patient care – this robot is just one step towards creating a center for excellence in surgical care.”

    “Here at the Muscogee Creek Nation, we’re not just taking care of people today, we have a responsibility to make sure they receive the best care and quality of life possible in the future,” Principal Chief David Hill said. “To see MCN Health continue to be forward-thinking and aggressive in seeking out resources and technology that keeps us on the cutting edge, is very gratifying.”

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    About MCN Health

    Headquartered in Okmulgee Okla., the Muscogee Nation is the fourth largest federally recognized tribe in the United States with more than 100,000 citizens. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Health operates community hospitals and a physical rehabilitation center serving both tribal citizens and the general public. To ensure healthy generations of Native people, the Nation also operates Indian health clinics and provides dedicated services for citizens of federally recognized tribes.

     About the da Vinci surgical system

    There are several models of the da Vinci surgical system. The da Vinci surgical systems are designed to help surgeons perform minimally invasive surgery. Da Vinci systems offer surgeons high-definition 3D vision, a magnified view, and robotic and computer assistance. They use specialized instrumentation, including a miniaturized surgical camera and wristed instruments (i.e., scissors, scalpels and forceps) that are designed to help with precise dissection and reconstruction deep inside the body.

     

  • Muscogee Nation Health Hosts 17th Annual Diabetes Summit

    Muscogee Nation Health Hosts 17th Annual Diabetes Summit

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation to Host Career and Resource Fair

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation to Host Career and Resource Fair

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

     

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation to Host Career and Resource Fair

    Attendees Will Receive Resume and Application Assistance Among Other Services

    Okmulgee, Okla.—The Muscogee Nation Human Resources and the Employment and Training Administration are set to host a Career and Resource Fair on September 20th at the Mvskoke Dome in Okmulgee. The purpose of this event is to assist with filling the Muscogee Nation’s present career openings while also providing resume and application services to those currently job seeking.

    Several Muscogee Nation departments will be on hand to relay information regarding resources and services that benefit those currently employed, unemployed and/or actively seeking employment. Departments will also be searching for candidates and conducting on-site interviews to fill their open positions. Local companies and programs from outside the tribe will be in attendance seeking to fill their openings as well.

    ETA Job Placement Specialist, Jessinna Factor, encourages those who plan on attending to “…dress to impress, bring your resume and prepare for an on-site interview.”

    The event is free and open to the public. Even those not currently job seeking are encouraged to attend as there may be resources and other assistance programs that cater to both employed and unemployed individuals. ‘Swag bags’ will be given out to the first 200 attendees, winners for door prizes will be drawn every half hour and refreshments will be served throughout the duration of the event.

    A shuttle service, courtesy of Muscogee Nation Transit, will be provided as a means of transportation for those who live outside of Okmulgee County. Pick-up times and locations can be viewed HERE.

    For more information, call 918-732-7773 or email McnHiringEvent@muscogeenation.com.

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  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation Launches New Attorney General Website

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Launches New Attorney General Website

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

     

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Launches New Attorney General Website

    Provides New Resources for Partner Agencies and Citizens

    Okmulgee, Okla.—Muscogee (Creek) Nation has launched an updated website for the Office of Attorney General. The new platform offers expanded information along with helpful step by step tutorials for ease of access to information.

    The enhanced site offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to meet the diverse needs of our citizens and promote cooperation amongst agencies. They can be found at the following links:

    1. Attorney General Directory: Comprehensive personnel directory with direct contact information.  https://www.dev.muscogeenation.com/attorney-general-directory/.
    2. Legal Forms: Access legal forms and documents to assist with various legal processes. Visit the legal forms page at https://www.dev.muscogeenation.com/attorney-general-directory/attorney-general-legal-forms/.
    3. Tickets and Citations: Guides law enforcement agencies through a simple 5-step process for submitting and coordinating traffic violations with MCN. Explore the tickets and citations page at https://www.dev.muscogeenation.com/attorney-general-directory/attorney-general-tickets/.
    4. Court Records: Access essential court records and documents through our user-friendly interface. Explore the court records page at https://www.dev.muscogeenation.com/attorney-general-directory/attorney-general-court-records/.
    5. Legal Codes: Stay informed about legal codes and regulations relevant to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. Visit the legal codes page at https://www.dev.muscogeenation.com/attorney-general-directory/attorney-general-codes/.
    6. Important Documents: Access a library of important legal documents and resources to better understand your rights and responsibilities. Explore this valuable resource at https://www.dev.muscogeenation.com/attorney-general-directory/attorney-general-documents/.
    7. Letters and Correspondence: Stay updated with official letters and correspondence from the Attorney General’s office. Visit the letters and correspondence page at https://www.dev.muscogeenation.com/attorney-general-directory/attorney-general-letters/.

    Principal Chief David Hill stated, “The Muscogee (Creek) Nation is committed to providing our citizens with the best possible services and resources. We believe that these updated webpages will be a valuable tool for our community, enhancing access to legal support and knowledge.”

    Attorney General Geri Wisner commented on this new resource, “We are always looking for new ways improve our coordination with partner agencies to benefit public safety. We are stronger together and believe these new resources provides information that can streamline interagency cooperation.”

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  • Chief Hill Responds to Nofire Appointment as Tribal Liaison

    Chief Hill Responds to Nofire Appointment as Tribal Liaison

  • Chief Hill Responds to Governor’s Remarks on Tribal Nations and Citizens in Strongly Worded Letter

    Chief Hill Responds to Governor’s Remarks on Tribal Nations and Citizens in Strongly Worded Letter




  • MCN Health Partners with ORU for Native Youth Basketball Camp

    MCN Health Partners with ORU for Native Youth Basketball Camp

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation Launches Expansion of Juvenile Justice System

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Launches Expansion of Juvenile Justice System

    L-R: MCN Juvenile Justice Program Director Amanda Swope, Second Chief Del Beaver, Principal Chief David Hill, National Council Speaker William Lowe, MCN Attorney General Geri Wisner

    For Immediate Release

     

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Launches Expansion of Juvenile Justice System

    10-year Plan Emphasizes Early Intervention and Increases Disciplinary Authority

    OKMULGEE, Okla. – Today, Principal Chief David Hill signed new legislation that creates the legal framework for implementing a ten-year strategic plan for juvenile justice on the MCN reservation.

    At a signing ceremony held at the MCN Government complex, Chief Hill said, “This is a historic moment for the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. After decades of being hindered by the illegal limitation of our jurisdiction, this new legal framework paves the way for an expansion of services that will make our juvenile justice system the best in the land.”

    MCN’s ten-year strategic plan will implement reforms department-wide, focusing on three key goals:

    Expanding Department Resources and Capabilities
    • New satellite office in Tulsa to increase access to services
    • Law enforcement personnel who specialize in juvenile justice cases
    • Expansion of juvenile justice staff

    Expanding Innovative Prevention and Intervention Programs
    • Diversion to treatment and intervention resources
    • Court-ordered treatment plans with a system of escalated penalties
    • Case management and monitored community supervision

    Enforcement of Robust Accountability Measures
    • Growing contracts with Juvenile Detention Centers
    • Authority to extend jurisdiction beyond juvenile age
    • Policy for Youthful Offender crimes and transfer to adult court

    MCN National Council Speaker William Lowe attended the signing ceremony and commented on the need for legislation, “Juvenile justice is a growing issue in every jurisdiction in America. This legislation is an important step that will strengthen public safety on our reservation by updating our codes to give our juvenile justice workers more tools and authorities to address troubled youth.”

    MCN Attorney General Geri Wisner welcomed the legislation: “Our number one priority is public safety, and this expansion of tools and preventative resources will help us continue to deliver justice for everyone within our reservation boundaries.”

    MCN Tribal Juvenile Justice Program Director Amanda Swope, who led the strategic plan development, commented, “After the McGirt decision affirmed MCN jurisdiction throughout our reservation, we began to update our codes. In conjunction with the University of Las Vegas Law School, we did an expansive review of our codes and those of the juvenile justice systems around us to build a comprehensive legal code. In some cases, we’ve aligned with other systems; in others, we’ve taken a unique approach that reflects the culture of MCN, but the result is a package of reforms that we believe will not only strengthen public safety but put our youth on a path to healthy, productive lives.”

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  • Second Chief Beaver Appointed to Tribal Advisory Committee

    Second Chief Beaver Appointed to Tribal Advisory Committee

  • Muscogee Nation Issues Statement on US Supreme Court Denying Stay in Hooper Case

    Muscogee Nation Issues Statement on US Supreme Court Denying Stay in Hooper Case

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    OKMULGEE, Okla.,— The Muscogee (Creek) Nation learned this afternoon that the U.S. Supreme Court denied the City of Tulsa’s application of a stay pending the filing of its petition for certiorari of the Tenth Circuit’s ruling in Hooper v. Tulsa. We are grateful that the Court saw no merit in this procedural attempt to delay the law and Tribal authority while this case is pending. More than enough taxpayer money has been spent on these baseless legal maneuvers. Although this case is not over, we look forward to continued collaboration with our municipal partners to protect public safety across our reservation.

  • Muscogee Nation Announces Healing and Recovery Center

    Muscogee Nation Announces Healing and Recovery Center