The Department of the Interior and Federal Agencies Launch Training Series to Combat Violent Crime in Indian Country

Press Release

WASHINGTON — The Department of the Interior’s Victim Assistance Program has partnered with the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Indian Country Training Initiative, U.S. Indian Police Academy, FBI, DEA and ATF to curb violent crime in Indian Country. Through this partnership, several federal agencies have joined forces to offer a comprehensive training series aimed at improving how law enforcement and service providers respond to violent crime and enhance support for victims in tribal communities.

The training series kicked off May 22, 2025, with a live webinar on responding to domestic violence and strangulation incidents with nearly 900 participants, which included tribal, federal and state law enforcement officers, medical professionals and victim advocates. 

“This series shows what we can accomplish when agencies work together,” said Glen Melville, Deputy Bureau Director of Office of Tribal Justice. “By combining our expertise, we’re making sure those on the front lines have the tools and knowledge they need to protect victims and hold offenders accountable.”

The series will continue throughout the year, offering no-cost, virtual training to those working in tribal justice, public safety and victim services.

Upcoming Open Courses:

• Privately Made Firearms & Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) – July 17, 2025 | 603 registered
• FBI Child Abduction Rapid Deployment Team Overview – July 30, 2025 | 492 registered

Completed Trainings to Date:

• Responding to Domestic Violence and Strangulation Incidents – May 22, 2025 | 896 participants
• Conducting the Trauma-Informed Interview – May 29, 2025 | 908 participants
• Introduction to Crime Gun Intelligence– June 17, 2025 | 351 participants
• Machinegun Conversion Devices – June 26, 2025 | 314 participants
• BIA Division of Drug Enforcement: Program Overview and Resources – July 1, 2025 | 330 participants
• Beyond the Arrest: Victim-Centered Excellence in Criminal Investigations – July 10, 2025 | 460 registered

Most sessions are open to professionals in law enforcement, victim services, health care and social services at the tribal, federal and state levels. While some topics are restricted to law enforcement, the series is designed to equip all who serve Indian Country the skills and knowledge to respond to violence with professionalism, compassion and cultural sensitivity. This effort highlights the impact of strong partnerships in building safer, stronger tribal communities.

To register for remaining courses and receive more information, please contact the National Indian Country Training Initiative at usipatraining@bia.gov.

####