FHPD makes 10 arrests in Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel drug sweep operation

FHPD Chief of Police Pat Teton talks about the March 13 operation.

By ROSELYNN YAZZIE
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — The Fort Hall Police Department made ten arrests on Friday, March 13 in their first drug sweep operation of the Shoshone-Bannock Hotel Casino parking lot, with assistance from Bingham County Sheriff’s K9 units. 

They seized drugs, such as marijuana, heroin and methamphetamine.

At least three of them were tribal members, and those who weren’t, were taken into custody by Bingham County to be prosecuted through state court. 

The K9’s were taken through the parking lot and if they were alerted to something suspicions in a vehicle they ran the license plate and notify the owner of the vehicle to find out if they have anything inside that may be illegal. It’s up to them whether they admit to it or not, and if needed they would obtain a search warrant.

FHPD Chief of Police, Pat Teton, said it is something that’s been in the process with the Fort Hall Casino and it’s not going to be a one-time thing.

“Today was kind of a trial run to see and it’s really been pretty productive as far as taking drugs and getting them off the streets,” he said. 

Teton said, “I think it’s positive because nobody wants illegal drugs and drug activity to go on where they’re at. Especially if they’re in a public place they want to feel safe. Sometimes people who are under the influence, whether it be drugs they’re sometimes unpredictable and sometimes it makes for an unsafe environment. 

Teton said they’re taking measures on behalf of the community’s safety and the patrons at the Shoshone-Bannock Hotel Casino. He said they’re doing what they can to make it a drug free community.

“Doing our best to make sure we’re doing our part in that endeavor,” said Teton.

Sho-Ban Tribes Elderly Nutrition Program closes, implementing drive through meal pick up

Elderly Nutrition Program workers hand an elder a meal as part of their newly implemented
service.

FORT HALL — The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Elderly Nutrition program meal site is now closed because of concerns of the coronavirus so participants can now go through the drive through to get their meals.

Manager Joyce Hayes said regular participants can go to the door of the Nutrition center to receive a meal to go between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. No one is allowed to eat on site.

Regular homebound deliveries remain the same. The limitations are in effect until further notice but is subject to change.