Cherokee Nation Donates $30,000 to Adair County Law Enforcement

Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor Canaan Duncan, Stilwell City Clerk Larry Nettles, Stilwell Police Chief Chad Smith, Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker and Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden.

Published April 6, 2019

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation recently made a contribution of $30,000 to three Adair County law enforcement agencies.

Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor Canaan Duncan along with Principal Chief Bill John Baker and Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden presented the checks to law enforcement officials. The donations were made from Duncan’s allocated law enforcement funds.

“It goes without saying that our local law enforcement agencies provide an invaluable service to our communities,” Duncan said. “As with most sectors in our state, law enforcement agencies have also experienced the stress of budget cuts, and I am so glad the tribe can step up and help alleviate some of that financial strain.”

Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor Canaan Duncan, Adair County Sheriff Jason Ritchie, Principal Chief Bill John Baker and Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden.

The Adair County Sheriff’s Department received $15,000, and the Stilwell and Westville police departments each received $7,500.

“It is such a blessing that our tribe is in a position to support those who serve and protect. Partnering with these local law enforcement agencies provides resources for necessary equipment and training that helps ensure the safety of Cherokees and non-Cherokees alike,” Crittenden said.

Each year the tribe donates 20 percent of car tag sales revenue to local law enforcement agencies. The funds can be used on equipment or other needs.

Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilor Canaan Duncan, Westville Police Chief Scott Mitchell, Principal Chief Bill John Baker and Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden.