RCPD Initiates Drug Trafficking Investigation

The Red Cliff Police Department, with the support of the Red Cliff Tribal Council, has initiated a federal drug trafficking investigation, targeting the trafficking of narcotics to and within Indian Country. The investigation began in June of 2023, and is an ongoing investigation that has seen support, collaboration, and assistance from Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin State Patrol, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Native American Drug and Gang Initiative (NADGI), High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), Lac Courte Oreilles (LCO) Tribal Police Department, Iron River Police Department, Superior Police Department, and the US Attorney’s Office.

Red Cliff Police are working most closely with the Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the US Attorney’s Office. Red Cliff is thankful to the deputies, investigators, and agents for their time, expertise, and dedication they continue to provide to help make our community a safer place. Red Cliff also gives thanks to their families who have sacrificed time with their loved ones in uniform as this investigation demands long hours and unpredictable schedules.

“Addressing the drug crisis in our community and across our entire region is a priority for the Tribal Council and the Red Cliff Police Department,” said Red Cliff Chairwoman Nicole Boyd. “Drug activity causes serious harm to our community, our youth, our families, and our future generations. Simply talking about it is not enough, and we are proud to be taking the drug crisis head on.”

Drug related activity in Indian Country poses major health and economic hardships on indigenous communities and is a major contributor to violent crime. Drug traffickers have used Indian Country as a safe haven from law enforcement for decades, but with the help of the Red Cliff Community and through the collaboration of local, state, and federal law enforcement, we can send the message that Indian Country, and specifically Red Cliff, has had enough. “No More!”

This investigation is an ongoing effort. The Red Cliff Tribal Council and Red Cliff Police Department will continue to provide updates as they are available for release. We thank the community for all your support. If you have any information you are able and willing to share, please contact RCPD at 715-779-3733, or stop by the RCPD office at 88385 Pike Rd (lower level).

Miigwech,

Red Cliff Tribal Council & Red Cliff Police Department