This past April, the Committee on Indian Affairs held an oversight hearing to discuss juvenile justice issues in Indian country. So I have been aware for some time of the great problem that juvenile crime poses to tribal governments. He further directed the Justice and Interior Departments to take steps to address this problem. I look forward to hearing what action the Department has taken regarding this issue. Juvenile gang activity in particular poses a unique threat to all jurisdictions.
Indian country is no exception.
Studies conducted by federal agencies, universities, and tribal governments indicate that criminal gang activity within Indian country has steadily increased over the past decade. I am told that this program is entirely voluntary. In Arizona alone, a recent FBI study identified 177 gangs on 14 different reservations. Representatives from two of these tribes are present today. I welcome them and also look forward to hearing their views regarding causes and solutions to this problem.