Feature

Seneca Nation working with Crime Stoppers WNY to keep territories safe from illegal drug activity

The Seneca Nation has enlisted the help of a strong partner in its ongoing efforts to keep the Seneca people and Seneca territories safe from the dangers of illegal drugs.

The Nation announced that it is working in partnership with Crime Stoppers WNY to help address concerns about illegal drug activity on Nation territory. Crime Stoppers serves Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany counties, and assists law enforcement agencies in their efforts to apprehend wanted individuals and getting tips on expected and unsolved crimes.

“The Seneca Nation wants to see those who try to poison our territories and our people brought to justice. They are not welcome here,” said Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong, Sr. “Our community has lost far too many lives to substance abuse and those who prey on our people. By working in partnership with Crime Stoppers WNY, we are adding another layer of protection to our territories, and providing our people another resource in keeping our home and our families safe.”

Crime Stoppers allows for anonymous reporting of suspected crimes and offers cash rewards for information leading to arrests. Armstrong urged members of the community to use the Crime Stoppers tip line at (716) 867-6161 or the “Buffalo Tips” app to report criminal activity on Seneca Territory. A report form is also available on the Crime Stoppers website at https://www.crimestopperswny.org/.

The partnership with Crime Stoppers is just the latest step the Nation has taken to combat activity on its territories. On July 30, President Armstrong issued an Executive Order banning a suspected drug dealer from all Seneca Territory. The individual, a non-Seneca Nation member, has several felony convictions of criminal possession of a controlled substance and is suspected of being involved in the sale of illegal narcotics.

“The fight against illegal drugs is a constant, all-consuming battle, and Seneca Territory should not be a safe haven for these soul-less evildoers,” President Armstrong added. “As citizens, our role is to be vigilant and watchful, and to share information with our law enforcement partners. By working together, we can hopefully bring an end to this terror through the law enforcement and judicial systems that are meant to protect all of us.”