BIA Office of Justice Services

08/25/2026

Our hearts go out to the San Carlos Apache Tribe, Indian Country and especially the wildland fire community as we mourn the loss of Randy Lupe, a dedicated crewmember who served on the Frijoles Fire. His commitment and spirit will be remembered by the wildland firefighting family and beyond. 🪶

We are saddened to share the identity of the crewmember we lost on the Frijoles Fire in northern New Mexico on Sunday. Randy Lupe, 62, of the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona, died following a medical emergency.

Lupe was a U.S. Wildland Fire Service temporary emergency support crewmember on the San Carlos camp crew, which was supporting federal wildfire response on the Frijoles Fire.
Out of consideration for the family, the Interior Department is not releasing additional medical information at this time.

This loss is felt deeply across the wildland firefighting community, and our thoughts are with all those affected.

You can find the full press release at https://www.doi.gov/wildlandfireservice/identity-released-wildland-fire-support-crewmember-who-died-frijoles-fire-new.

08/24/2026

Help us bring Augustine Floyd home. ❤️
Contact our MMU to leave an anonymous tip that could bring closure to his family and healing to tribal communities.

BIA OJS MMU are seeking information that may assist them with the ongoing search.

08/21/2026

🎉Celebrating U.S. Indian Police Academy Class #072🎉

Thirty years ago, on August 21, 1996, these dedicated men and women crossed the stage at the U.S. Indian Police Academy, beginning a lifetime of service rooted in duty, resilience, and pride. Today, we honor their legacy and the traditions they uphold. We invite graduates, families, and community members to share your memories in the comments as we recognize the lasting impact of Class #072. Thank you for inspiring future generations and keeping the spirit of service alive!

08/17/2026

Help us bring Peter M. Martin home. ❤️
Contact our MMU to leave an anonymous tip that could bring closure to his family and healing to tribal communities.

BIA OJS MMU are seeking information that may assist them with the ongoing search.

08/14/2026

Earlier today, Native American service members of the Arizona Air National Guard’s 161st Air Refueling Wing attended a ceremony at Wesley Bolin Plaza in Phoenix honoring the service and sacrifice of the Navajo Code Talkers.

While the Navajo Code Talkers are among the most well-known, Native Americans from several tribes, including the Choctaw, Comanche, Cherokee and others, served as Code Talkers during World War I and World War II. They drew on their Native languages to help protect military communications and support U.S. forces in combat.

On National Navajo Code Talkers Day, Indian Affairs honors the Native American service members who have answered the call to serve - from the Code Talkers of World War I to the Native service members carrying that legacy forward today. We remember their sacrifice, celebrate their legacy and honor the Native languages that played a vital role in our nation’s defense.

Indian Affairs is proud to honor the service of Native veterans and service members and help preserve the legacy of those who served for generations to come.

08/14/2026

The enthusiasm surrounding our U.S. Indian Police Academy class photo series is a testament to the pride and connection we share. Each post sparks cherished memories, heartfelt stories and a sense of honor among officers who have trained, served and shaped the future of policing across Indian Country.

Today, we pay tribute to Class 032 👮‍♂️👮‍♀️, who trained from March 31, 1979 – June 8, 1979. We thank these dedicated officers for their service, perseverance and the outstanding example they set for those who followed the call.

Your contributions continue to inspire new generations and strengthen our commitment to justice. 🙌✨

More class spotlights coming soon! 📸

08/14/2026

Today we honor the Navajo Code Talkers, whose unbreakable code, rooted in the Navajo language, helped secure victory in WWII and saved countless lives. In 1982 President Reagan proclaimed August 14 as Navajo Code Talkers Day. Their legacy is a powerful reminder of cultural strength and sacrifice. 🤍❤💛🖤

Take a moment to remember the Navajo Code Talkers, honor their service and celebrate these extraordinary heroes.

08/10/2026

Help us bring Robert Urton home. ❤️
Contact our MMU to leave an anonymous tip that could bring closure to his family and healing to tribal communities.

BIA OJS MMU are seeking information that may assist them with the ongoing search.

08/06/2026

🎉 Honoring U.S. Indian Police Academy Class 081 🎉

Today, we celebrate the 27th anniversary of U.S. Indian Police Academy Class 081 (May 3-Aug. 6, 1999). Since graduating, these dedicated officers have served tribal communities across Indian Country with courage, integrity and commitment.

Thank you, Class 081, for your service, resilience and the lasting legacy you continue to build. Your dedication inspires the next generation of tribal law enforcement. 👏🚔

08/03/2026

Help us bring Renzo Bullhead home. ❤️
Contact our MMU to leave an anonymous tip that could bring closure to his family and healing to tribal communities.

BIA OJS MMU are seeking information that may assist them with the ongoing search.