Alaska villages request clemency for fishermen who were cited

Monday, July 23, 2012  

The Association of Village Council Presidents is asking Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell (R) to grant clemency for Alaska Native fishermen who were cited by state police.

The AVCP says the fishermen were only trying to provide food their families. They are accused of putting nets in the Lower Kuskokwim River during an emergency closure order.

Salmon has been running low on the river. The AVCP wants Parnell to declare an emergency but he plans to ask the Obama administration for one.

Parnell also said it's premature to discuss clemency since none of the fishermen have been convicted so far.

Get the Story:
Southwest Alaska Tribal Organization Seeks Clemency from Governor for Kuskokwim Fishermen (KTUU-TV 7/22)

Authorities seized 1,100 pounds of salmon from Alaska Natives (6/22)