Indian inmates at odds with state over tobacco at ceremonies

Thursday, November 29, 2012  

Indian inmates in South Dakota are at odds with state corrections officials over the use of tobacco in ceremonies.

The Native American Council of Tribes, a group that holds ceremonies for inmates, and two inmates who are members of the Oglala Sioux Tribe won a decision that overturned the state's ban on tobacco. But the parties haven't reached an agreement on issues like video surveillance of ceremonies, tobacco mix and the use of tobacco ties.

Judge Karen Schreier accepted proposals from the inmates and state and will make a decision.

Get the Story:
State, inmates far apart on ceremonial tobacco (AP 11/27)

District Court Decision:
Native American Council of Tribes v. Weber (September 19, 2012)

Indian inmates in South Dakota win religious freedom lawsuit (9/28)