A member of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Montana has been freed of a criminal contempt charge in his fight against the tribe's constitution.

Russell Standing Rock is opposing amendments to the constitution. He was arrested after refusing to under a mental evaluation sought by tribal officials.

A tribal court judge heard the contempt case last week and dismissed the charge. But the tribe's special prosecutor plans to appeal.

The constitutional amendments have been the source of controversy on the reservation in recent years. The changes affect tribal membership, judgeships and other issues.

Get the Story:
Judge dismisses charges against activist (The Great Falls Tribune 9/30)

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