Are You Prepared to Serve on a Joint Operation?
Investigative Impacts
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has teamed up with the US Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to investigate the soaring rates of violent acts impacting Indigenous communities. FBI agents, victim specialists, and analysts from across the country are helping to investigate crimes on tribal lands as a part of Operation Not Forgotten.
From June to September 2024, the operation resulted in arrests of 40 suspects, as well as the indictment of 11 alleged violent offenders. During this time, nine children have been removed from abusive or neglectful situations. More than 300 cases have received increased investigative, intelligence, and victim assistance.
Augmenting Awareness
Now in its second year, Operation Not Forgotten is garnering support from more government agencies and nonprofit groups. These partnerships have allowed cases to move through the criminal justice process in a timelier manner, while providing care, resources, and closure for victims and their families.
Previously, the media coverage of these incidents has been scarce, according to Michael Henderson, director of criminal investigations at the Navajo Nation Police Department. Through Operation Not Forgotten, the FBI aims to not only increase resources available for investigating these crimes, but to increase public awareness of the thousands of missing Indigenous people across the nation, as well.
Recognizing Risks
FBI agents working on Operation Not Forgotten will have to take into consideration the processes, regulations, and expectations upheld by agents of the BIA in order to work cohesively. Any federal law enforcement officer working jointly with other agencies must understand their professional vulnerability and take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their careers.
Oftentimes, partnerships between federal agencies have amplified visibility compared to daily operations, which may be met with increased scrutiny. Any misstep will lead to calls for accountability that may lead to allegations and investigations. Allegations and investigations can lead to suspensions, terminations, or even personal capacity lawsuits. If an allegation is made against you, it is a necessity, not luxury, to have knowledgeable and effective counsel advocating on your behalf.
FEDS PLI for Law Enforcement Officers
As the professional liability insurance (PLI) provider endorsed by the leading federal law enforcement employee associations, FEDS Protection offers federal employee PLI policies with $1 million, $2 million, or $3 million in civil liability protection for attorney’s fees and indemnity costs in the event you are sued in your civil capacity. The FEDS policy also includes $200,000 of legal representation coverage per incident for administrative actions and $100,000 of coverage for criminal defense costs.
Annual premiums for FEDS Protection PLI start at $290. Additionally, federal law enforcement officers, supervisors, and managers are eligible for a reimbursement of up to 50% the cost of their PLI policy through their agency. To learn more about how a FEDS PLI policy can protect you and your career, visit www.fedsprotection.com or call (866) 955-FEDS, M-F 8:30am-6pm to speak directly to a representative.
*This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
