NEW TOWN – The Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara (MHA) Nation, the MHA Division of Drug Enforcement and the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force signed a Memorandum of Understanding this week, marking a historic milestone in collaborative public safety efforts.

This agreement is the first Memorandum of Understanding of its kind between the state’s ICAC Task Force and a tribal nation in North Dakota, representing a significant step forward in intergovernmental cooperation and the protection of children and families, according to MHA Nation.

Through the agreement, the partnering agencies will strengthen cooperation to more effectively address drug-related crime, investigate internet-based exploitation, share resources and expertise, and enhance public safety while respecting tribal sovereignty.

“This agreement represents more than a formal partnership,” said Dawn M. White, Chief of MHA’s Division of Drug Enforcement. “It demonstrates our collective commitment to working together with mutual respect, open communication and a shared purpose to protect our most vulnerable community members.”

“MHA Nation’s multi-agency agreement with the ND BCI ICAC task force represents another significant step forward insuring and enforcing community safety and wellbeing in Fort Berthold,” said MHA Nation Chairman Mark Fox. “I am proud to say this partnership will lead to strengthening protections for our people.”