FARGO, N.D. (AP) _ The federal Bureau of Indian Affairs has
handled more than a hundred reports of suspected child abuse or
neglect on the Spirit Lake reservation since taking over social
services in October.
The BIA assumed control of the tribe's social service programs
after criticism that the tribe has failed to protect vulnerable
children.
The BIA has new procedures for placing children in foster homes,
including ensuring there are documents showing the placement was
ordered by a tribal judge.
The BIA also informed the North Dakota congressional delegation
on Friday that it has hired a social worker to manage the Spirit
Lake Tribe's social services program.