The Meskwaki Tribe has the power to enforce state criminal laws, according to an opinion letter from the Iowa attorney general.

The tribe recently hired its first police force in more than 70 years. The officers were due to hit the streets earlier this month but a dispute arose when Tama County said they couldn't enforce state law.

The attorney general's office, however, said the tribe's officers are considered peace officers of the state. They should be able to start their duties on October 1, said Meskwaki chairman Homer Bear Jr.

Get the Story:
Attorney general's office issues opinion on Meskwaki law enforcement (AP 9/19)

Relevant Links:
Meskwaki Tribe - http://www.meskwaki.org

Related Stories:
Meskwaki Tribe's new police force hits the streets (08/30)
Meskwaki Tribe prepares for first police force (06/09)
Meskwaki Tribe swears in chief for new police force (03/23)