The Montana Department of Corrections is hiring a tribal liaison to address high rates of Native Americans in the prison system.

According to state statistics, Native Americans are 17 percent of the male inmate population. Statewide, Native Americans make up only 6 percent of the population.

The liaison, to be based in Great Falls, will assist Native Americans who enter the corrections system. The goal is to keep Native people out of prison and help them navigate the justice system.

Get the Story:
Correctional system to get tribal liaison (The Great Falls Tribune 6/28)

Related Stories:
Non-Indian inmates taking part in religious ceremonies (03/08)
Jail says eagle feather can be used as weapon (10/28)
Prison inmates readily embrace Indian traditions (07/01)
Religious rights of prisoners upheld by Supreme Court (06/01)
Race an issue in Native inmate group in Nebraska (05/02)
Federal judge approves Indian inmate settlement (03/15)
Indian inmates in Nebraska settle lawsuit (11/12)
Program to help Native inmates grounded by tribe (01/25)
Indian man with long hair wins release from prison (05/27)
County jail changes policies for Indian inmates (02/17)