Enhancement of Swinomish Tribal Court and Probation Department

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 Swinomish Indian Tribal Community will utilize Fiscal Year 2008 Tribal Courts Assistance Program (TCAP) funds to enhance case and data management and improve current audiovisual and telephone equipment and software. The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community currently handles all judicial functions of the Swinomish Community. These significant enhancements will be beneficial in improving communication and the court system technology. The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community will create alternative sentencing and community service programs. These specific models will assist in the current probation strategies that are necessary for having a more sufficient internal Tribal Judicial system.

CA/NCF