An initiative led by the FBI is working to curb violent crime against women and children in tribal communities. Operation Not Forgotten recently wrapped up its second mission that ran from June through September 2024 in native communities across the United States.
The FBI joined forces with the Bureau of Indian Affairs-Office of Justice Services (BIA) to dedicate resources toward cases involving the most vulnerable victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence.
The FBI relies on partners like the BIA to help navigate Indian Country, since the organization has closer ties to the communities they serve.
In four months, the groups’ combined efforts led to over 40 arrests.
In addition, 11 violent offenders were indicted and nine children were saved from situations of abuse or neglect.
During the operation, FBI agents also focused on solving homicide cases.
“I think what a lot of these cold cases need are fresh eyes, another mind to think of different things,” BIA program analyst Rikki Himel said.
As part of the initiative, the FBI also provided support, including crisis intervention and transportation, to over 400 victims.