TRIBAL POLICE
Headquarters
58155 M-51 South
P.O. Box 180
Dowagiac, MI 49047
(269)782-2232 or toll-free at 1-866-399-0161
Four Winds Law Enforcement Substation
19279 Kinst Road
New Buffalo MI 49117
(269) 469-1722
OUR MISSION
The Department’s mission is to provide for a safe, welcome, and orderly environment for the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi Indian Community; defend the sovereignty of the band and the rights of all the people in its jurisdiction; and assist in improving the quality of life for all tribal members.
DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
Tribal law enforcement is the only law enforcement service directly accountable to the membership. With Native Americans experiencing violent crime at a rate twice the rate of the nation as a whole, it is important that the tribe has a law enforcement agency whose primary function is to protect the tribal membership, assets and lands. Your police department consists of highly educated and trained men and women who literally put their lives on the line everyday to protect the membership.
We need your help however, because no department can prevent crime in our community alone. I encourage each member to assist in watching for suspicious activity, learn all you can to protect yourself and family, and take advantage of the services offered by your department. Together we can make a difference.
Thank you for allowing us to serve you.
HISTORY
The Pokagon Tribal Police Department was established in 2003 to provide direct law enforcement services to the tribal members and visitors in the ten county tribal geographic boundaries in Michigan and Indiana.
The Tribal Police Department was established under the authority of the Sovereign status of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and are appointed as Tribal Police Officers by the Tribal Government, licensed under Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES), deputized by Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Sheriff’s Offices as sheriff deputies and commissioned as federal officers by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The department is committed to community oriented policing practices. As such it incorporates the traditions and culture of the Pokagon Band into the daily operations whenever possible.
CRIME PREVENTION & SAFETY
Child Car Seat Installation Instruction
Parents and grandparents are reminded that Michigan and Indiana Law requires that children must be properly buckled in a car seat while riding in a motor vehicle. In addition, here are some other items you should know:
Never place a rear-facing infant in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger airbag.
The safest place for any child is in the rear seat.
Replace any car seat that has been involved in a crash.
Correctly buckle the car seat into the vehicle.
Get a tight fit. The seat should not move more than one inch from side to side or toward the front of the vehicle.
Check the vehicle owner’s manual to see if you need a locking clip.
Not sure if you have the correct car seat or if it’s installed correctly? Contact Tribal Police at (269) 782-2232 and arraignments can be made for one of the officers to inspect the seat and show you how to install it. The Tribal Police also conduct car seat clinics several times during the year at various locations. If you don’t have a car seat let us know and we can make one available for you.
Crime Prevention & Safety Presentations
The department provides various presentations and programs concerning safety and crime prevention. If you or a group you belong to would like a program contact the department to set up a date.
Home Security Inspections
Does your home have proper lighting? Are the locks adequate? Have you taken measures to keep thieves from getting into your home? Tribal police will conduct a security check of your home and offer suggestions to keep from being victimized. To schedule a home security survey, contact Tribal Police for an appointment.
Safety Gun Locks
Tribal Police in an effort to protect the safety of the members and their families are offering free gunlocks to members while the supply lasts. Approximately 43% of households own guns of some type. While hunting and target shooting can be enjoyable pastimes, care must be taken particularly when children may be in the home. Guns kill nearly 3400 children annually. If you are a parent or grandparent and have guns in the home, lock the guns away from the ammo and teach the children never to touch the gun. All guns should be locked in the event the child finds it. To assist members in protecting the children, tribal police have obtained a limited number of gunlocks that will be distributed to the membership free of charge. These locks can be picked up at the police department during business hours and will also be available at selected events. By working together we can prevent a tragedy from taking place.
First Aid & CPR Instruction
Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in adults with 75% of the cardiac arrests occurring in the home. CPR doubles the chances of survival from sudden cardiac arrests. Tribal Police provides classes on both CPR and First Aid to members at various times. Check the News and Events section to see when the next class is scheduled or contact Tribal Police to be put on the list for the next class.
File of Life Cards
More than 90% of medical emergency calls are treated without knowledge of the patients' medical history. The File of Life card enables Fire/Police/EMS personnel to obtain a quick and accurate medical history when a patient is unable to offer one. The card also eliminates the risk of a patient forgetting to mention something important. The card, which is kept in a red plastic pocket labeled FILE OF LIFE, lists the patient name, emergency medical contact, insurance policy, social security number, health problems, medications, dosages, allergies, recent surgery, religion and a health care proxy. The entire pocket is held with a magnet to the outside of the refrigerator. You can obtain a FREE File of Life card for you and each of your family members at the Tribal Police Headquarters Office.
Crime Prevention Brochures
Tribal Police stock a number of safety and crime prevention brochures. Members can stop by the department and pick up various brochures. The department is also at a number of membership events with brochures.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Disaster Preparedness Presentations
Would your family know what to do in the event of a disaster? The department provides informational presentations that address the steps you can take to protect your family during a disaster. One of the lessons learned from the disaster that struck Louisiana is that individuals must be take measures to protect their families before the emergency strikes.
Home Preparedness
Before an Emergency
- Prepare an emergency supply kit and family disaster plan.
- Identify a plan for your pets in the event an evacuation to an emergency shelter is required. Most shelters do not except pets.
- Stayed tuned to your local media for weather and emergency updates. Special weather radio alerts are also available to enhance warning of approaching severe weather.
- Identify a pre-designated location within your home to be utilized for emergency shelter in place procedures.
- Make sure you have access to a battery operated radio or corded phone to keep updated on emergency instructions.
- Learn how to shut off utility services, such as ventilation and air conditioning systems
During an Emergency
- Stay alert to the local media for emergency alerts and updates on what protective actions to take.
- If ordered to seek shelter, do so immediately.
- If evacuating to an emergency shelter bring your emergency supply kit with you. It is important to stay calm, listen carefully, and follow all instructions.
- Close and lock your doors and windows.
- Avoid using the telephone. Use your phone only in life threatening emergencies.
- Telephone lines are frequently overwhelmed in disaster situations. They need to be clear for emergency calls to get through.
- Register with the reception center so that you can be contacted and reunited with your family and loved ones.
- Take only one vehicle to the evacuation site. Traffic maybe very heavy and parking at a shelter maybe limited.
- Do not take shortcuts on the way to the shelter as roadways may be blocked or may expose you to hazardous conditions.
- Keep tuned to local radio and TV stations for advice and instructions.
After an Emergency
- If evacuated from your home, do not return until authorities say it is safe.
- If alerted to shelter in-place at home, remain in the room until authorities advise you to leave your shelter.
Four Steps to Safety
| 1. Find Out What Could Happen to You |
| ___ | Meet with household members and discuss the dangers of possible emergency events, including fire, severe weather, hazardous spills, and terrorism. |
| ___ | Learn about your community’s warning signals: what it sounds like and what you should do when you hear it. |
| ___ | Find out how to help elderly or disabled persons, if needed. |
| ___ | Ask about animal care after a disaster. Animals may not be allowed inside emergency shelters due to health regulations. |
| ___ | Find out about the disaster plans in your workplace, your children’s school or daycare center and other places where your family spends time. |
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| 2. Create a Disaster Plan |
| ___ | Pick two places to meet: |
| | 1-Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire. |
| | 2-Outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home. All family members must know the address and phone number. |
| ___ | Choose an out-of-town or out-of-state contact your family or household will call or e-mail to check on each other should a disaster occur. Other family members should call this person and tell them where they are. Everyone must know your contact’s phone number. |
| ___ | Discuss what to do in an evacuation. Plan how to take care of your pets. |
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| 3. Complete This Checklist |
| ___ | Post emergency telephone numbers by the phones (fire, police, ambulance, etc.). |
| ___ | Teach children how and when to call 911 for emergency help. |
| ___ | Show each family member how to and when to turn off the water, gas and electricity at the main switches. |
| ___ | Check if you have adequate insurance coverage, with special attention to flood insurance. |
| ___ | Teach each family member how to use the fire extinguisher (ABC type) and show them where it’s kept. |
| ___ | Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms. |
| ___ | Stock emergency supplies and assemble an Emergency Supply Kit. |
| ___ | Take a first aid and CPR class. Classes are available at the Tribal Police Department. |
| ___ | Find the safe spots in your home for each type of disaster. |
| ___ | Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each room. |
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| 4. Practice and Maintain Your Plan |
| ___ | Quiz your kids every six months so they remember what to do. |
| ___ | Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills. |
| ___ | Replace stored water every six months and stored food every six months. |
| ___ | Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer’s instructions. |
| ___ | Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries twice each year when you set your clocks for daylight savings or standard time. |
Severe Weather Safety Measures
TORNADO WATCH AND WARNING.....DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE?
TORNADO SAFETY
There is an average of 16 tornados in Michigan each year. Between 1950 and 1995 ninety-nine tornados occurred in Michiana injuring 409 and killing 34 people. Although tornados can occur anytime, most in Michiana occur between April and August between 3PM and 7PM. As we enter the tornado season in Michiana, there are some safety tips.
WATCH means:
A Tornado Watch is issued when the weather conditions are favorable to a tornado forming. It is issued to alert people to the possibility of a tornado developing in the area. Turn on the Television or radio and be alert of changing weather conditions. Watch the sky for dark, often greenish tint, wall clouds, large hail or a loud roar, similar to a freight train. All are possible indicators of an approaching tornado. This is also a good time to review the safest places for shelter in the home.
WARNING means:
A tornado has actually been sighted in the area or is indicated by radar. When a Tornado Warning is issued take shelter immediately.
If you are in a mobile home – Evacuate the home and shelter should be taken elsewhere. If there is no shelter nearby, leave the home and lie in a flat ditch or a ravine. DO NOT take shelter under the home.
If you are in a home – The basement offers the greatest protection. If there is no basement go to the lowest level and to a windowless interior room. The center of the room is the safest. If possible get under a heavy piece of furniture such as a workbench or table.
If you are in a car – DO NOT try to outrun the tornado. This is only done in the movies. Tornados are unpredictable and can quickly change direction. Get out of the car and seek shelter in a building. If there are no buildings around, get out of the car and lie in a ditch or ravine.
TORNADO MYTHS
Myth: Areas near rivers, lakes and mountains are safe from tornadoes.
Fact: No place is safe from tornadoes.
Myth: The low pressure with a tornado causes buildings to explode.as the tornado passes overhead.
Fact: Violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause the most structural damage.
Myth: Windows should be opened before a tornado approaches to equalize pressure and minimize damage.
Fact: Opening windows allows damaging winds to enter the structure. Leave the windows alone; instead immediately go to a safe place.
Myth: Tornadoes are always visible from a great distance.
Fact: Tornadoes can be hidden in heavy rainfall or nearby low hanging clouds.
Lightning Kills
As more people are enjoying outdoor activities during the summer months, members should be aware the potential dangers of being struck by lightning. Lightning can strike as much as ten miles away from any rain. Just because it isn’t raining doesn’t mean you are safe. If you hear thunder, you are a potential strike victim and need to seek shelter. Outdoors is the most dangerous place during a lightning storm. If you see or hear a thunderstorm coming seek shelter in a building or car. Avoid sheds, picnic shelters, and baseball dugouts. If you can’t get to a shelter, stay away from trees. Keep twice the distance from a tree, as it is tall. If you’re fishing or swimming, get out of the water. Stay off the shore and away from boats and canoes.
If you are with someone who is struck by lightning, medical care may be needed immediately. Cardiac arrest and burns are common in cases of lightning strikes. Call 911 for an ambulance and give CPR if the victim has quit breathing.
Emergency Sheltering
If a fire, flood, hazardous materials spill or other emergency exists that poses a potential threat to your safety you may be asked to evacuate your home with little warning. It is important to develop plans within your family so that everyone knows what to do. The Tribal Police have worked with other departments and the local emergency management offices to identify these areas. At the time you evacuate you will be given a location where shelters have been prepared.
Emergency Supply Kits
Every home should keep an emergency supply kit stocked in the event of an emergency or disaster. You should consider including the following items in an Emergency Supply Kit:
| Water 3-day supply of water. |
| ___ | 1 gallon per person per day. Store water in sealed, unbreakable containers. Replace every 6 months. |
| |
| Food 3- to 5-day supply of nonperishable packaged or canned food per person. |
| ___ | Ready to eat canned meats, fruits & vegetables |
| ___ | Smoked or dried meats such as beef jerky |
| ___ | Soups-bouillon cubes or dried soups in a cup |
| ___ | Vitamins |
| ___ | Milk-powdered or canned |
| ___ | High energy foods-peanut butter, nuts, trail mix |
| ___ | Stress foods-sugar cookies, hard candy |
| ___ | Sugar, salt, pepper |
| ___ | Juices-canned, powdered or crystallized |
| |
| Clothing & Bedding Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person. |
| ___ | Sturdy shoes or work boots |
| ___ | Hats & gloves, extra warm clothing |
| ___ | Warm socks, rain gear |
| ___ | Thermal underwear |
| ___ | Blankets or sleeping bags |
| ___ | Sunglasses |
| |
| First Aid Kit
| | ___ | Sterile adhesive bandages |
| ___ | Bar of soap |
| ___ | 3-inch sterile gauze pads (8-12) |
| ___ | Moistened towelletes |
| ___ | Triangular bandages (3) |
| ___ | Antiseptic spray |
| ___ | 2-inch sterile gauze pads (8-12) |
| ___ | Non-breakable thermometer |
| ___ | Hypoallergenic adhesive tape |
| ___ | Latex gloves |
| ___ | 2 & 3-inch sterile roller bandages |
| ___ | Petroleum jelly |
| ___ | Scissors |
| ___ | Assorted sizes of safety pins |
| ___ | Tweezers |
| ___ | Cleansing agent –soap |
| ___ | Needles |
| ___ | Tongue blades and wooden applicator sticks |
| ___ | Safety razor blade |
| ___ | Water purification tablets |
| |
| Tools & Supplies |
| ___ | Mess kits, paper cups, plastic utensils |
| ___ | Maps (state, county, city) |
| ___ | Batteries, battery operated radio |
| ___ | Fire extinguisher |
| ___ | Flashlight, extra bulbs, extra batteries |
| ___ | Money |
| ___ | Wooden matches in waterproof container |
| ___ | Family emergency plan |
| ___ | Aluminum foil, plastic storage containers |
| ___ | Can opener (hand-operated) |
| ___ | Signal flare |
| ___ | Utility knife, paper towels |
| ___ | Paper, pencil and needles, thread |
| ___ | Tube tent/tarp |
| ___ | Shovel & other useful tools |
| ___ | Medicine dropper |
| ___ | Plastic sheeting, duct tape |
| ___ | Dust mask and work gloves |
| |
| Sanitation |
| ___ | Personal hygiene items |
| ___ | Spray disinfectant |
| ___ | Plastic garbage bags and ties |
| ___ | Towelettes or diaper wipes |
| ___ | Plastic bucket w/tight lid |
| ___ | Toilet paper |
| |
| Special Items |
| For Baby |
| ___ | Bottles |
| ___ | Formula, Juice |
| ___ | Powdered milk |
| ___ | Diapers/wipes |
| ___ | Medications |
| For Adult |
| ___ | Heart and high blood pressure medications |
| ___ | Extra eyeglasses |
| ___ | Insulin |
| ___ | Entertainment –games, books |
| ___ | Prescription drugs |
| ___ | Cell phone |
| ___ | Denture needs |
| ___ | Prepaid phone card |
| ___ | Contact lenses and supplies |
| Important Family Documents Keep copies in the emergency supply kit. |
| ___ | Important phone numbers |
| ___ | Immunizations records |
| ___ | Wills, insurance polices |
| ___ | Family records (birth, marriage, death) |
| ___ | Contracts, deeds, stocks and bonds |
| ___ | Inventory of valuable household goods |
| ___ | Passports, social security cards |
LICENSING & PERMITS
Hunting & Fishing Regulations
Hunting and fishing on portions of tribal property is open to members and spouses. A hunting and/or fishing license from the appropriate state as well as a permit from the tribe is required. Tribal permits can be obtained from the Environmental Coordinator at the Housing Offices on Edwards. Permits should be displayed in the vehicle’s windshield when hunting or fishing. Appropriate state conservation laws apply. Members are also reminded that no watercraft using a gas outboard motor is allowed on tribal waters.
CAREERS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
Michigan Officer Licensing Requirements
All officers employed by the Tribal Police Department are licensed in Michigan under the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) requirements. The standards are:
The applicant was subjected to a background investigation.
The applicant was fingerprinted for this application process. As a result of the fingerprint search, the applicant was found to be free of any felony convictions, including
expunged or set aside convictions.
The applicant does not have a felony conviction or expunged felony.
The applicant has a valid motor vehicle operator or chauffeur's license.
The applicant has disclosed all relevant personal history information necessary to determine his/her suitability as a law enforcement officer under the good moral character standard.
The applicant is a United States citizen.
The applicant has a high school diploma or has attained a passing score on the general
education development test indicating a high school graduation level.
The applicant is at least 18 years old.
The applicant was subjected to an oral interview.
The applicant was subjected to a medical physical exam. As a result of this exam, it has been determined that the applicant meets all MCOLES medical selection standards, including the vision and hearing standards. A medical history questionnaire was presented to the examining physician prior to the medical examination.
The applicant passed a psychological assessment.
The applicant passed a drug screen.
The applicant has an Associate Degree or higher.
The applicant has passed the MCOLES reading and writing test or an approved agency equivalent examination.
The applicant has successfully completed the basic training curriculum at an MCOLES approved school.
The applicant has taken and attained a passing score on the MCOLES licensing examination.
For further information on starting a law enforcement career in either tribal, state, or local agencies, contact the department.
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