“Operation Not Forgotten reflects the FBI’s relentless and continued commitment to ensuring the safety and security of women and children in indigenous communities,” FBI Deputy Director, Paul Abbate, said. “By expanding our presence in Indian Country and working closely with tribal law enforcement agencies and community advocates, the FBI aims to achieve meaningful and impactful progress in solving these cases and bringing justice for victims and their families and loved ones.”
The release explained that the enhanced presence allows the FBI to provide faster response and better support to investigations into crimes that “disproportionately affect women and children in these areas.”
In coordination with investigators, victim specialists provide critical support to victims and families. They are given specialized training to understand the cultural sensitivities and unique needs of indigenous victims, ensuring that voices are heard, rights are protected, and the necessary resources for healing and recovery are received.
As part of this initiative, the Salt Lake City FBI received six special agents and a staff operations specialist who spent 30 to 90 days on temporary assignment between July and September 2023. Resident agencies in the Montana Hi-Line, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and Vernal, Utah each received one special agent. Three special agents and the SOS were staffed in Billings, Montana.
“We recognize that Indigenous women and children are too often the victims of violent crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI. “This operation reaffirms our commitment to keeping our tribal communities safe and working closely with our tribal partners to hold perpetrators accountable. Every victim matters, and every family deserves justice for criminal actions against their loved ones.”
FBI field offices receiving dedicated personnel include:
- Albuquerque
- Detroit
- Denver
- Minneapolis
- Oklahoma City
- Omaha
- Phoenix
- Portland
- Seattle
- Salt Lake City
Individuals with any relevant information are encouraged to visit tips.fbi.gov to submit an online tip or contact their local FBI office.
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