Tribal Court Enhancement Project

This award is made under the FY 2008 Tribal Courts Assistance Program and it supports the development, implementation, enhancement, and continuing operation of tribal justice systems. Allowable elements under the program may include, but are not limited to: establishing a core structure for a tribal court; improving case management; training court personnel; acquiring additional equipment and/or software; enhancing prosecution and indigent defense; supporting probation diversion and alternative sentencing programs; accessing services; focusing on juvenile services and multi disciplinary protocols for child physical and sexual abuse; and structuring intertribal or tribal appellate systems.

The Yankton Sioux Tribe is one of the seven nations that comprise the Sioux. The Yankton Sioux Indian Reservation is home to about 5,700 members in rural south central South Dakota and located on approximately 40,000 acres of farmland. The grant funds will be used by the Tribe to enhance their Tribal Court, which is responsible for the civil, criminal, and juvenile cases on the reservation. The Tribal Court will utilize funds to purchase and upgrade equipment; train its personnel; hire a Probation Officer; and create alternative sentencing options that will improve Tribal Court services for Tribal members that have addictions to alcohol and/or drugs. The grant will help the Tribal Court ensure the continuity of tribal traditions and culture and improve Tribal Court capacity and effectiveness.

CA/NCF