The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) crisis continues to be a devastating issue impacting Indigenous communities across the nation. However, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe is taking significant strides to address this issue head-on, demonstrating a commitment to the safety and well-being of the Southern Ute Tribal membership through proactive measures and collaborative partnerships.    

In the past year, the Tribe has made significant progress in its efforts to combat MMIR, achieving a 100% success rate in the recovery and conclusion of all missing and runaway cases to date. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the Tribe’s dedication and the effectiveness of its comprehensive approach. 

A cornerstone of this success is the Tribe’s updated Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for handling missing and runaway person cases. This updated SOP provides clear guidelines and protocols for Tribal law enforcement and other relevant departments, ensuring a swift and coordinated response in every case. The SOP includes a public awareness template for reporting and documenting cases, facilitating efficient information gathering and investigation on public platforms including social media.  

Recognizing the importance of timely communication, the Tribe has established clear communication channels to keep families and community members informed throughout the process. These channels include regular updates from law enforcement and a dedicated point of contact for families to address their concerns and questions. 

Collaboration is key to the Tribe’s approach. Under the leadership of Chief of Police, Michael Barrow, the Southern Ute Police Department has strengthened its partnerships with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), ensuring seamless coordination and information sharing across jurisdictions. This collaboration has been instrumental in the successful and timely resolution of missing and runaway cases. The Tribe’s commitment to collaboration, clear communication, and continuous improvement is yielding remarkable results, bringing hope and healing to families and the community. 

While the Tribe celebrates its success in recent cases, they remain vigilant and committed to the ongoing work of preventing future disappearances and ensuring the safety of all their members. Together we strive to be a beacon of hope in the fight against MMIR, demonstrating that through dedication and collaboration, progress is possible. 

If a loved one goes missing, please consult our guide outlining the suggested steps to take in this difficult situation. For any questions or further assistance, please contact the Southern Ute Police Department dispatch at 970-563-4401.