Fort Peck Tribal Security Program To Start Soon

By Bill Vander Weele

Fort Peck tribal officials are optimistic that a new tribal security program will result in a decrease of crime throughout the reservation.

“The crime rate is getting bad here,” TEB member Terry Rattling Thunder Sr. said.

Rattling Thunder was a strong proponent of utilizing ARPA funds to provide increased security to the area.

“I’m proud of it. I think it will go a long ways,” Rattling Thunder said. “The intent was to make our communities safer.”

The plan features having vehicles and security guards in the five communities of Oswego/Frazer, Brockton, Fort Kipp, Poplar and Wolf Point. Office spaces have already been secured in Fort Kipp and Brockton.

He said the patrol will mostly be taking place during evening hours.

Rattling Thunder says the plan is to make the program self-sufficient.

Angela Matthews was hired as the tribal security director and has been working to get the program off the ground.

She anticipates decals reading Fort Peck Tribal Security to be placed on the vehicles in the next week or so. They are also in the process of installing top lights. During the first few weeks, employees will use cellphones until radios arrive.

Matthews is hopeful that the program will be up and running within the next couple of weeks.

“I’ve been working on it from the ground up. I hope to make it big,” Matthews said.

One challenge has been finding the needed amount of staff members. Individuals interested should contact the tribal office.

Matthews explained that the security guards will observe and watch possible criminal activity. At the request of officers, the security guards can detain suspects.

“I’m hoping it’s a well-rounded program,” Matthews said. “I want people to know that we’re watching.”

She noted that she has received positive receptions about the programs when she’s talked with law enforcement such as the county sheriff and Wolf Point chief of police.

“We’re trying to make a difference,” Matthews said.