The Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma has increased penalties for serious crimes.

Under the Cherokee Nation Law and Order Act, offenders face up to three years in jail and up to $15,000 in fines for crimes like manufacturing methamphetamines or child abuse. Offenders can also be sent to federal prison instead of local facilities.

“We have a responsibility to protect our people and make the Cherokee Nation as safe as possible,” Principal Chief Bill John Baker said in a press release. "The passage of this new act shows how serious we are about crime prevention and prosecuting those offenders who violate the law within the Cherokee Nation’s jurisdictional boundaries."

The changes come after the enactment of the Tribal Law and Order Act, which allows for longer sentences.

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Council strengthens tribe’s Law and Order Act (The Cherokee Phoenix 3/13)