WINDOW ROCK – Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are committed to public safety across the Navajo Nation. On August 16, community presence was a key topic during their discussion.
“Always be visible,” President Nygren told Navajo Police and FBI agents. “I want people to hesitate before thinking about committing crimes because of the FBI’s partnership with the Navajo Police.”
The president met with FBI special agents Heith R. Janke, Matthew J. Schaeffer, and Tyler Woods from the Phoenix Field Office, along with Navajo Division of Public Safety officials Micheal Henderson, Malcolm Leslie, and Leonard Williams.
President Nygren emphasized that having visible law enforcement increases residents’ sense of safety. He also stressed the importance of respecting Navajo elders. Additionally, he noted that maintaining public safety contributes to a strong local economy.
The conversation also highlighted cultural sensitivity.
“We don’t joke about owls and snakes,” said Woods, who grew up in Page, Arizona. “FBI agents are culturally aware.” Woods added that in major cases like homicides, the FBI respects Navajo grieving and burial arrangements.
President Nygren stressed that strong collaboration between the FBI and Navajo authorities is crucial to combat crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and bootlegging.
“Knowing that the FBI partners with us shows the Navajo Nation is a safe place to be,” he said.