Ordinance No.____08-03__________
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Ordinance No.____08-03__________
ORDINANCE
COLORADO RIVER TRIBAL COUNCIL
An Ordinance to Enact Title IV of the Domestic Relations Code, Domestic and Family Violence
Be it enacted by the Tribal Council of the Colorado River Indian Tribes in special meeting
assembled on________December 15, 2008___________
WHEREAS,
the Colorado River Indian Tribes is a federally recognized Indian tribe, duly
organized with a tribal governing body known as the Tribal Council, according to
the provisions contained in the Indian Reorganization Act of June 18, 1934; and
WHEREAS,
the purpose of Title IV of the Domestic Relations Code, Domestic and Family
Violence is as follows:
(1) End all domestic and family violence on the Colorado River Indian
Reservation and promote the healing of families;
(2) Ensure the safety of victims of domestic and family violence and guarantee
victims the maximum protection from abuse and/or violence;
(3) Establish unequivocally the official response to cases of domestic and
family violence: Violent and abusive behavior will not be tolerated or excused
under any circumstance;
(4) Foster the principle that the elders, adults, women, children and
physically/mentally challenged of our Tribes and community residing on the
Colorado River Indian Reservation are to be cherished, protected and treated
with respect;
(5) Hold perpetrators of domestic and family violence fully accountable for
their conduct;
(6) Eliminate future violence in all families through prevention, counseling,
treatment programs and public education that promote the cultural and
traditional values of the Colorado River Indian Tribes so as to nurture nonviolence within families and instill respect for the elders, adults, women, children
and the physically/mentally challenged of our Tribes; and
WHEREAS,
a public hearing was held on November 10, 2008 for public comments and
feedback; and
WHEREAS,
the Domestic Violence Workgroup made appropriate changes to Title IV of
the Domestic Relations Code, Domestic and Family Violence based on public
comments and feedback received at the public hearing; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED that the Tribal Council approves and adopts Title IV
of the Domestic Relations Code, Domestic and Family Violence; and
BE IT FURTHER ENACTED that Title IV of the Domestic Relations Code, Domestic and
Family Violence shall be effective on February 1st, 2009; and
BE IT FURTHER AND FINALLY ENACTED that the Tribal Council Chairman and Secretary, or
their designated representatives, are hereby authorized and directed to
execute any and all documents necessary to implement this action.
DOMESTIC RELATIONS
DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE CODE
ARTICLE IV
INDEX
PAGE NO.
CHAPTER 1. TITLE, PURPOSE, DEFINITIONS……………………………………………. 1
Section 1-101. Title……………………………………………………………………... 1
Section 1-102. Statement of Purpose…………………………………………….. 1
Section 1-103. Definitions…………………………………………………………….. 1
CHAPTER 2. DUTY TO REPORT ABUSE…………………………………………………... 5
Section 1-201. Persons Required to Report Abuse………………………………. 5
CHAPTER 3. CRIMES…………………………………………………………………………... 7
Section 1-301. Criminal Domestic and Family Violence………………………… 7
Section 1-302. Criminal Stalking…………………………………………………….. 7
Section 1-303. Criminal Elder and Dependent Adult Neglect
and Abuse…………………………………………………………….. 7
Section 1-304. Unlawful Possession of Firearms and Ammunition…………… 8
Section 1-305. Aggravated Criminal Domestic and Family Violence…………. 8
Section 1-306. Violation of a Protection Order……………………………………. 9
CHAPTER 4. CRIMINAL PROCEDURES, PENALTIES……………………………………. 9
Section 1-401. Investigation………………………………………………………….. 9
Section 1-402. Probable Cause………………………………………………………. 10
Section 1-403. Investigation by an Officer…………………………………………. 10
Section 1-404. Arrest Procedures…………………………………………………… 10
Section 1-405. Mandatory Arrest…………………………………………………….. 11
Section 1-406. Victims Assistance…………………………………………………... 12
Section 1-407. Special Court Rules…………………………………………………. 12
Section 1-408. Penalties……………………………………………………………….. 13
Section 1-409. Right to File for Criminal Relief.…………………………………… 14
Section 1-410. Prosecution Without a Willing Victim Witness…………………. 14
Section 1-411. Victims Assistance; Duty of Law Enforcement Officer……….. 14
Section 1-412. Rights of Victims of Domestic and Family Violence;
Duty of Prosecutor to Inform Victim of Rights.………………… 16
CHAPTER 5. CIVIL, PROTECTION ORDERS, PENALTIES…………………………….. 16
Section 1-501. Protection Orders; Commencement; Right to File…………….. 16
Section 1-502. Availability of Petition; Filing Fees……………………………….. 17
Section 1-503. Contents of the Petition…………………………………………….. 17
Section 1-504. Ex-Parte Temporary Protection Order Procedures;
Notice of Hearing; Hearing……………………………….......…… 18
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Section 1-505. Protection Order; Non-Defenses………………………………….. 18
Section 1-506. Protection Order; Contents………………………………………… 19
Section 1-507. Protection Order; Duration; Modification……………………….. 21
Section 1-508. Protection Order; Service…………………………………………... 21
Section 1-509. Protection Order; Assistance of Police Department in
Service or Execution……………………………………………..… 22
Section 1-510. Copy of Protection Order to Police Department……………….. 22
Section 1-511. Violation of Court Order……………………………………………. 22
Section 1-512. Order to Show Cause ………………………………………………. 22
Section 1-513. Civil Fine………………………………………………………………. 22
Section 1-514. Restitution…………………………………………………………….. 23
Section 1-515. Expulsion……………………………………………………………… 23
CHAPTER 6. LIABILITY, COMITY, SEVERABILITY…………………………………… 23
Section 1-601. Liability……………………………………………………………….. 23
Section 1-602. Comity………………………………………………………………… 24
Section 1-603. Severability…………………………………………………………… 24
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DOMESTIC RELATIONS
ARTICLE IV.
DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE CODE
CHAPTER 1. TITLE, PURPOSE, DEFINITIONS
Section 1-101. Title.
This Ordinance shall be known and cited to as the "Domestic and Family Violence Code
of the Colorado River Indian Tribes," or the "Domestic and Family Violence Code."
Section 1-102. Statement of Purpose.
The Domestic and Family Violence Code shall promote the following:
(1)
End all domestic and family violence on the Colorado River Indian Reservation
and promote the healing of families.
(2)
Ensure the safety of victims of domestic and family violence and guarantee victims
the maximum protection from abuse and/or violence.
(3)
Establish unequivocally the official response to cases of domestic and family
violence: Violent and abusive behavior will not be tolerated or excused under any
circumstance.
(4)
Foster the principle that the elders, adults, women, children and
physically/mentally challenged of our Tribes and community residing on the Colorado
River Indian Reservation are to be cherished, protected and treated with respect.
(5)
Hold perpetrators of domestic and family violence fully accountable for their
conduct.
(6)
Eliminate future violence in all families through prevention, counseling, treatment
and public education that promotes the cultural and traditional values of the Colorado
River Indian Tribes so as to nurture non-violence within families and instill respect for
the elders, adults, women, children and the physically/mentally challenged of our Tribes.
Section 1-103. Definitions.
(1)
"Abuse and/or Violence" means the infliction of any of the following acts upon a
person:
(A) "Assault" – as defined under Article III, Section 317 of the Law and Order
Code; however, the exercise of proper disciplinary actions by any of the following
people on a minor does not constitute assault:
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(i)
(ii)
(iii)
Parents;
Legal guardians or custodians;
Adults that are given limited care, control and custody by parents or
legal guardians or custodians; or
(iv)
Adults that are expected to exercise care, control and custody by
parents or legal guardians or custodians.
(B) "Battery" - application of force to the person of another resulting in bodily
harm or an offensive touching;
(C) "Threats or Endangerment" - as defined under Article III, Section 318 of the
Law and Order Code;
(D) "Coercion" – compelling an unwilling person, through force or threat of force,
to:
(i)
Engage in conduct which the person has a right to abstain from; or
(ii)
Abstain from conduct which the person has right to engage in;
(E) "Confinement" - compelling a person to go where the person does not wish to
go or to remain where the person does not wish to remain;
(F) "Damage to Property" – destroying, damaging, misusing or misappropriating
the property of another;
(G) "Emotional Abuse" - using threats, intimidation or extreme ridicule to inflict
humiliation and emotional suffering upon another;
(H) "Harassment" - conduct which causes emotional alarm or distress to another
by shaming, degrading, humiliating, placing in fear, or otherwise abusing personal
dignity.
(I) “Unwelcome Conduct” –
(i)
Unwelcome visiting or following of a person in a private or public
place;
(ii)
Unwelcome sexual propositioning, references to body parts,
functions or attributes, or other offensive comments of a sexual
nature;
(iii)
Unwelcome communications made by phone, letter, computer or
other similar methods, containing intimidating, offensive,
threatening, or violent language; or
(iv)
Unwelcome lingering around the home, school, or work place of a
person;
(J) "Sexual Abuse" - any physical contact of a sexual nature, or attempted
physical contact of a sexual nature, with a person, made without that person’s consent.
Consent cannot be obtained through means such as force, intimidation, duress, fraud,
or from a minor under any circumstance; and
(K) "Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse and Neglect" means conduct by any
person that has the responsibility for care or custody of an elder or a dependent adult,
where the negligent exercise of that responsibility results in deprivation of services
necessary to maintain minimum physical, medical and mental health to a degree of care
below that which a reasonable person in a like position would exercise. Neglect includes,
but is not limited to, all of the following:
(i)
Failure to assist in personal hygiene, or in the provision of food,
clothing or shelter.
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Failure to provide medical care for physical and mental health needs.
No elder shall be deemed neglected or abused for the sole reason
that he or she voluntarily relies on treatment by spiritual means or
through prayer alone in lieu of medical treatment.
(iii) Failure to prevent malnutrition.
(iv)
Abandoning an elder or dependent adult for indefinite periods of
time.
(v)
Stealing or misappropriating money, checks, property or other assets
from an elder or dependent adult.
(L) “Other criminal conduct" – means any other conduct that constitutes an
offense under the criminal laws of the Colorado River Indian Tribes.
(ii)
(2)
"Bodily harm" means physical pain, illness, or the impairment of physical condition
which includes but is not limited to any skin bruising, bleeding, failure to thrive,
malnutrition, burns, fracture, subdural hematoma, soft tissue swelling, injury to any
internal organ or any physical condition which imperils a person's health.
(3)
"Business day" means any day except a Saturday, Sunday or a holiday officially
recognized by the Colorado River Indian Tribes.
(4)
"Court" means the Tribal Court of the Colorado River Indian Tribes.
(5)
"Dating relationship" means a present courtship or engagement relationship
between people of different sex or of the same-sex. For the purposes of this Article IV, a
casual acquaintance or ordinary fraternization between persons in a business or social
context shall not constitute a dating relationship.
(6)
"Dangerous instrument" means anything that under the circumstances in which it
is used, attempted to be used or threatened to be used is readily capable of causing
death or serious physical injury.
(7)
"Deadly weapon" means anything designed for lethal use, including, but not
limited to, firearms.
(8)
“Department of Behavioral Health Services” means the Colorado River Indian
Tribes Department of Behavioral Health Services.
(9)
“Department of Child Protective Services” means the Colorado River Indian Tribes
Department of Child Protective Services.
(10) “Department of Health Services” means the Colorado River Indian Tribes
Department of Health Services.
(11) “Department of Social Services” means the Colorado River Indian Tribes
Department of Social Services.
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(12) “Dependent adult” means a person over eighteen (18) years of age that has an
impairment by reason of mental illness, mental deficiency, developmental disabilities,
mental disorder, physical or mental disability, advanced age, chronic use of drugs,
chronic intoxication or other cause to the extent that the person lacks sufficient
understanding or capacity to make or communicate responsible decisions concerning
his/her person, as determined by the courts or qualified healthcare professionals.
(13) "Domestic and family abuse and violence" means any act of abuse or violence on
a family or household member of the perpetrator.
(14)
“Elder” means a person fifty-five (55) years or more in age.
(15)
"Family or household members" means:
(A) current or former spouses;
(B) persons who live together or have lived together;
(C) persons who are engaged in a sexual relationship;
(D) persons who have a child in common or who are expecting a child together;
(E) persons related by blood, adoption, or marriage who regularly resides in the
household or who within the prior six (6) months regularly resided in the
household, and
(F) minor children or adopted children of persons described in (A) through (E)
above.
(G) persons having a guardianship relationship over a dependent adult or an
elder.
The above definition of "family or household member" applies only to the
Domestic and Family Violence Ordinance.
(16) “Firearm” means a gun, pistol, or any weapon from which a projectile is
discharged by the force of an explosive substance or any air guns, including, but not
limited to, pellet guns, bb guns, air rifles, air pistols; paint-ball guns. However, softpellet toy guns or other air soft guns are not deemed firearms.
(17)
"Judicial Clerk" means the Judicial Clerk of the Tribal Court.
(18) "Officer" means a duly commissioned law enforcement officer of the Colorado
River Indian Tribes, pursuant to section 117 of the Law and Order Code.
(19) "Perpetrator" means a person who has committed an act of, or engaged in conduct
defined as, abuse and/or violence or stalking against any person defined as a victim.
(20) "Police Department" means the police department of the Colorado River Indian
Tribes.
(21)
"Prosecutor" means the prosecuting attorney for the Colorado River Indian Tribes.
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(22) "Prosecutor's Office" means the office of the prosecuting attorney for the Colorado
River Indian Tribes.
(23) "Protection order" means a temporary or permanent restraining order or order of
protection granted for the protection of victims of domestic and family violence.
(24)
"Repeatedly" means on three or more occasions.
(25) "Serious bodily injury" means bodily injury which creates a reasonable risk of
death, or which causes serious or permanent disfigurement, or serious impairment of
health or loss or protracted impairment of the function of any bodily organ or limb.
(26) "Sexual abuse" means any physical contact of a sexual nature, or attempted
physical contact of a sexual nature, with a person, made without that person's consent.
Consent cannot be obtained under any circumstance through means such as force,
intimidation, duress, fraud, or from a mentally retarded person.
(27) "Significant other" means a person with whom the victim has or has had a sexual
relationship and who is currently living or who has lived with the victim in the past,
regardless of whether they were legally married, or a person with whom the victim has a
child in common regardless of whether they have been legally married or have lived
together at any time.
(28)
"Tribal Council" means the Colorado River Indian Tribes Tribal Council.
(29)
“Tribes" means the Colorado River Indian Tribes.
(30) “Unlawful Sexual Behavior” is as defined under Section 320 of Article III of the
Law and Order Code and includes offenses of rape, deviate sexual contact and sexual
assault; for purposes of this Code, any offenses under Section 320 of Article III of the
Law and Order Code may be charged whether or not the victim is the perpetrator’s
spouse and regardless of the perpetrator’s gender.
(31) "Victim" means a spouse, family member, household member or person in a
dating relationship who has been subjected to domestic or family violence or stalking.
(32) "Violence" includes abuse, assault, battery, unlawful sexual behavior, or sexual
abuse.
CHAPTER 2. DUTY TO REPORT ABUSE
Section 1-201. Persons Required to Report Abuse
(1)
Any physician, hospital intern or resident, surgeon, physician’s assistant, dentist,
osteopath, chiropractor, podiatrist, coroner, registered nurse, licensed practical nurse,
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nurse's aide, psychiatrist, mental and/or substance abuse counselor, social worker,
school personnel, law enforcement officer, judge, religious practitioner, or any other
person having substantial responsibility for the care of children, elders or dependent
adults whose observation or examination of any child, elder or dependent adult discloses
evidence of injury, sexual molestation, physical or sexual abuse, or physical neglect
which appears to have been inflicted upon such child, elder or dependent adult by other
than accidental means or which is not explained by the available medical history as being
accidental in nature, shall immediately report or cause reports to be made of such
information to a Tribal law enforcement official as described under Section 1-201(2). Such
reports shall be made by telephone or in person, and shall be followed by written report.
Such reports shall contain:
(A) The names and addresses of the child, elder or dependent adult and his/her
parent or the person having custody of such child, elder or dependent adult, if known.
(B) The age and sex of the alleged victim and the nature and extent of his/her
injuries, molestation, abuse or physical neglect, including any evidence of previous
injuries, molestation, abuse or physical neglect of the child, elder or dependent adult.
(C) Any other information that such person believes might be helpful in
establishing the cause of the injury, molestation, abuse or physical neglect.
(2)
When telephone or in-person reports are received by a Law Enforcement Officer, a
Probation Officer, Social Services Case Worker and/or a Child Protective Case Worker,
he/she shall immediately notify the appropriate Tribal department(s) such as the Police
Department, Probation, Department of Social Services and/or Department of Child
Protective Services to initiate civil and/or criminal investigation(s).
(3)
Any person required to make reports pursuant to Subsection (1) of this Section
may take or cause to be taken photographs of the child, elder or dependent adult and the
vicinity involved. If medically indicated, further examinations and tests, including but not
limited to, radiological examinations, of the involved person may be performed.
(4)
The reporting duties under this Section are individual, and no supervisor or
administrator may impede or inhibit such reporting duties and no person making such
report shall be subject to any sanction for making such report. However, internal
procedures to facilitate reporting and apprise supervisors and administrators of reports
may be established, provided that they are not inconsistent with the provisions of this
Chapter.
(5)
Any other person who has knowledge of or observes a child, elder or dependent
adult whom he/she reasonably suspects has been a victim of abuse or neglect may report
such suspected instances of child abuse or neglect to a Law Enforcement Officer, a
Probation Officer, a Social Services Worker and/or a Child Protective Case Worker.
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CHAPTER 3. CRIMES
Section 1-301. Criminal Domestic and Family Violence.
A person commits the crime of Domestic and Family Violence if the person commits any
offense which is designated a crime under the Colorado River Indian Tribes Law and
Order Code and if the victim is a family or household member or a person with whom
he/she has or has had a dating relationship.
Section 1-302. Criminal Stalking.
A person commits the crime of Stalking if the person:
(1)
Engages in a conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable
person to fear the death or bodily injury to him/her or to a member of his/her immediate
family; or
(2)
Knows or should have known that the specific person will be placed in reasonable
fear of death or bodily injury to himself or herself or a member of his or her immediate
family; or
(3)
Acts with intent to induce fear in a specific person of death or bodily injury to
himself or herself or to a member of his or her immediate family.
Section 1-303. Criminal Elder and Dependent Adult Neglect and Abuse
A person commits the crime of Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse under this Section if the
person has the responsibility for care or custody of an elder or a dependent adult, and the
negligent exercise of that responsibility results in deprivation of services necessary to
maintain minimum physical, medical and mental health to a degree of care below that
which a reasonable person in a like position would exercise. Neglect includes, but is not
limited to, all of the following:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
Failure to assist in personal hygiene, or in the provision of food, clothing or
shelter.
Failure to provide medical care for physical and mental health needs. No
elder shall be deemed neglected or abused for the sole reason that he or
she voluntarily, and with informed consent, relies on treatment by spiritual
means through prayer alone in lieu of medical treatment.
Failure to prevent malnutrition.
Leaving of an elder or dependent adult unattended for indefinite periods of
time.
Stealing or misappropriating money, checks, property or other assets from
an elder or dependent adult
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Section 1-304. Unlawful Possession of Firearms and Ammunition.
(1)
A person commits the crime of unlawful possession of a firearm if the person
intentionally or knowingly uses or possesses any firearm while:
(A) The person is on probation for conviction of a domestic and/or family
violence crime, or
(B) While there is an outstanding protection order against the person and the
protection order prohibits the person’s use and/or possession of a firearm.
(2)
Exception. The person may petition the Court that the weapon be returned to his
or her use or possession provided the person shows by clear and convincing evidence:
(A) That he or she has a compelling need for the weapon, such as a need to hunt
for subsistence; and
(B) That the return of the weapon will not increase the risk of harm to the victim.
(3)
The Court may place any conditions on the return and use of the weapon that are
necessary to protect the victim.
It shall be unlawful for any person who has been convicted in any Court of a criminal
domestic and family violence, to ship or transport in interstate or foreign commerce, or
possess in or affecting commerce, any firearm or ammunition. For the purpose of
interstate or foreign transport under this Section, the definitions for firearms and
ammunition are as found in 18 U.S.C. § 921.
Section 1-305. Aggravated Criminal Domestic and Family Violence.
(1)
A person commits aggravated criminal domestic and family violence if the person
commits any of the following criminal offenses under the Colorado River Indian Tribes
Law and Order Code and when the victim is a family or household member or a person
with whom he/she has or has had a dating relationship:
(A)
Criminal Homicide (L & O Code, Article III, Section 316)
(B)
Assault, involving the use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument
(L & O Code, Article III, Section 317)
(C)
Assault, where serious physical injury occurs (L & O Code, Article III,
Section 317)
(D)
Kidnapping (L & O Code, Article III, Section 319)
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(E)
Unlawful Sexual Behavior (L & O Code, Article III, Section 320) includes
offenses of rape, deviate sexual contact and sexual assault; for purposes of this
Code, any offenses under Section 320 of Article III of the Law and Order Code may be
charged whether or not the victim is the perpetrator’s spouse and regardless of the
perpetrator’s gender.
(F)
Arson (L & O Code, Article III, Section 321)
(G)
Burglary (L & O Code, Article III, Section 322 (a)
(H)
Carrying a Concealed Weapon (L & O Code, Article III, Section 345)
(I)
Child Abuse (L & O Code, Article III, Section 356)
(2)
A person convicted of Aggravated Criminal Domestic and Family Violence under
this section shall be sentenced to confinement not to exceed one year and not less than
one-hundred and eighty (180) days per offense and may be ordered into a counseling
program to address their violent and/or abusive behavior. The Court may also order a
person convicted of an offense of Aggravated Domestic and Family Violence to pay a fine
in an amount not to exceed five-thousand dollars ($5,000.00). The Court in its discretion
shall have authority to order restitution pursuant to Section 1-514.
Section 1-306. Violation of a Protection Order.
(1)
A person commits the offense of Violation of a Protection Order if any person
intentionally, willfully or knowingly:
(A)
Violates any provision of an Order of Protection which was issued by any
Federal, State, CRIT Tribal Court or court of any other Indian Tribe, or
(B)
Commands, encourages, requests or solicits another person to violate any
provision of an Order of Protection which was issued by any Federal, State, CRIT Tribal
Court or court of any other Indian Tribe.
CHAPTER 4. CRIMINAL PROCEDURES, PENALTIES
Section 1-401. Investigation.
(1)
An Officer who conducts an investigation pursuant to this Article IV shall make a
written incident report whether or not an arrest is made and submit that report to the
Prosecutor's Office within forty-eight (48) hours of the incidence, excluding weekends and
holidays.
(2)
An Officer who conducts an investigation pursuant to this Article IV and finds that
no probable cause to arrest a person exists shall include in the written incident report the
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relevant facts as to why no probable cause was found and set forth the reason(s) for that
decision.
Section 1-402. Probable Cause.
Probable cause for arrest means that the Officer, acting as a person of reasonable
caution or judgment, has reasonable grounds to believe that the person to be arrested
has committed a criminal offense under the laws of the Colorado River Indian Tribes,
based on all the facts known to the Officer, including the Officer's personal observations,
statements made by parties involved in the incident, statements made by witnesses, if
any, and any other reliable, relevant information.
Section 1-403. Investigation by an Officer.
(1)
If a law officer is a suspected perpetrator the investigating officer shall notify the
Chief of Police immediately.
(2)
The Officer(s) who investigates pursuant to this Article IV an incident involving an
alleged perpetrator who is an Officer shall make a written incident report and include
whether or not an arrest is made and submit that report to the Prosecutor's Office and
Chief of Police within forty-eight (48) hours of the incident.
Section 1-404. Arrest Procedures.
(1)
The arresting Officer, Criminal Investigator, or other Official designated by the
Prosecutor, after notifying the alleged perpetrator of his/her rights, if the alleged
perpetrator consents, shall interview the alleged perpetrator within twenty-four (24) hours
after the arrest.
(2)
The arresting Officer shall file with the Court a criminal complaint and an affidavit
or a written report of the alleged incidence within forty-eight (48) hours after the arrest.
(3)
Any alleged perpetrator arrested under this Article IV shall be held in custody of
the Police Department for a period no less than seventy-two (72) hours, or such longer
period as is necessary to conduct a hearing or as determined by the Court, as a
mandatory "cooling-off” period. During the “cooling-off” period the alleged perpetrator
shall not be released on bail or on his/her own recognizance.
(4)
Twenty-four (24) hours prior to releasing an alleged perpetrator, the Police
Department and Prosecutor's Office shall notify the victim of the anticipated date and time
of the perpetrator’s release from custody and whether the Court has issued any orders
and release conditions.
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Section 1-405. Mandatory Arrest.
An Officer shall arrest if there is probable cause to believe the person to be arrested has
committed an offense, as defined by this Article IV, even though the arrest may be
against the expressed wishes of the victim.
An Officer shall arrest and take into custody an alleged perpetrator pursuant to this Article
IV:
(1)
If any arrest warrant has been issued, or without a warrant if the offense occurs in
the presence of the Officer or if the Officer has probable cause to believe that the person
to be arrested has committed an offense under this Article IV, without regard to any other
requirements imposed by the Colorado River Indian Tribes Tribal Code.
(2)
If the Officer has probable cause to believe the alleged perpetrator has violated a
protection order if the existence of the protection order can be verified by the Officer. A
perpetrator violates a protection order regardless of whether or not the perpetrator had
actual knowledge of the protection order, whether or not the victim initiated the contact
with the perpetrator or invited the perpetrator back into contact with the victim or into the
victim's home.
(3)
If a Judge issues a telephonic arrest warrant. Any judge of the Colorado River
Indian Tribal Court may issue a telephonic arrest and/or search warrant during nonbusiness hours under the following circumstances:
(A)
A telephonic arrest warrant must be based upon probable cause,
supported by oath, and particularly describing the place to be searched and/or the
person or thing to be seized,
(B)
The Officer must have probable cause to believe the alleged perpetrator
has committed an offense listed in Chapter 3 of this Code,
(C)
The Officer shall complete a probable cause form. The probable cause
form shall describe the facts and details to support probable cause,
(D)
The Officer shall complete the arrest and/or search warrant and must
therein describe the place to be searched and/or the person or thing to be seized.
(E)
When the Officer has completed both the probable cause form and the
arrest – search warrant, the Officer may contact a judge of the Colorado River Indian
Tribal Court by telephone,
(F)
The Judge shall administer the oath to the Officer,
(G)
The Judge shall have the Officer read the completed probable cause form
and the arrest – search warrant to the judge,
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(H)
If probable cause is found by the Judge, the Judge may authorize the
Officer to sign the arrest warrant on the Judge's behalf, and
(I)
When the arrest and/or search warrant is executed, a copy of the probable
cause form and the arrest and/or search warrant shall be filed with the Court as an
attachment to the criminal complaint.
(4)
If there was the use of or threatened use of a dangerous instrument or deadly
weapon.
Whenever the conditions for arrest as set forth in this Section 1-405 are present, the
Officer shall arrest the alleged perpetrator whether or not the alleged victim signs a
complaint and whether or not the arrest is against the expressed wishes of the alleged
victim. The Officer shall obtain all relevant evidence at the time of the arrest to support
probable cause; all evidence obtained at the time of the arrest can be used for all
proceedings under this Title.
Section 1-406. Victims Assistance.
The arresting Officer shall immediately provide written notification to all known victims of
the availability of treatment programs, legal rights and available services. Upon request
by the victim, the Officer shall provide or arrange for transportation of the victim to a
medical facility, or the Colorado River Regional Crisis Shelter. A Domestic Violence
Advocate, Shelter Advocate, or Behavioral Health Services may be called on behalf of the
victim.
Whether or not the alleged perpetrator has been arrested, the victim shall have a right to
file an order of protection with the Court.
Section 1-407. Special Court Rules.
(1)
In addition to the rules of Court generally applicable to criminal proceedings, the
Court is authorized to take the following actions in a proceeding for offenses under this
Article IV:
(A)
If the alleged perpetrator is to be released from custody the Court, in its
discretion and as a condition of release, may issue a protection order pursuant to this
Article IV, Chapter 4 to protect the alleged victim by excluding the alleged perpetrator
from the home of the alleged victim and restraining the alleged perpetrator from any
contact with the alleged victim.
(B)
If the alleged perpetrator pleads guilty, a pre-sentence report may be
ordered, at the discretion of the Court prior to sentencing.
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(C)
If it appears to the Court that alcohol or drugs played a part in the abuse, a
chemical dependency evaluation with a treatment plan may be ordered, at the discretion
of the Court, prior to sentencing.
(2)
Upon a guilty plea, grant of probation or suspension of the execution or imposition
of a sentence, for any person convicted under this Article IV, Chapter 4, the Court shall
order the perpetrator to enter and successfully complete an appropriate counseling
program. Such counseling may include, but is not limited to alcohol/drug abuse
counseling, domestic and family violence counseling, individual, group and/or family
counseling. Appropriate counseling program may be in conjunction with programs based
on traditional Native American healing practices. Such counseling program may consist of
the following:
(A)
Mandatory attendance and cooperation by the perpetrator in an intake
session for evaluation.
(B)
The evaluation shall be completed no later than twenty (20) business days
after entry of the order requiring evaluation, unless the Court extends that time period.
(C)
A copy of the recommended treatment plan shall be provided to the Court.
(D)
The Court may request a progress report from the treating agency.
(3)
Willful failure or refusal to comply with a Court order requiring a perpetrator to
attend and cooperate in evaluation and/or to undergo treatment as described in a
treatment plan shall constitute contempt of court pursuant to Section 341 of the L & O
Code and, in addition to the penalties under Section 341, the Court shall impose all or
some of the original suspended jail sentence and again require the perpetrator to
complete the entire program.
Section 1-408. Penalties.
(1)
A person convicted of a first offense under Chapter 4 of this Article IV shall be
sentenced to confinement not to exceed one-hundred and eighty (180) days and no less
than ten (10) days and ordered into a counseling program to address their violent and/or
abusive behavior. The Court may also fine a person convicted of a first offense of
domestic and family violence an amount not to exceed five-hundred dollars ($500.00).
The Court in its discretion shall have authority to order restitution pursuant to Section 1514.
(2)
A person convicted of a second offense within one (1) year of the commission of
the first offense under this Chapter 4 of this Article IV or violates Section 1-302 when
there is a protection order, injunction, or any other Court order in effect shall be
sentenced to confinement not to exceed one-hundred and eighty (180) days and no less
than ninety (90) and ordered into a counseling program to address their violent and/or
abusive behavior. The Court may also order a person convicted of the second offense of
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domestic and family violence to pay a fine in an amount not to exceed two-thousand
dollars ($2,000.00). The Court in its discretion shall have authority to order restitution
pursuant to Section 1-514.
(3)
A person convicted of a third offense within one (1) year of the commission of the
second offense under this Chapter 4 of this Article IV shall be sentenced to confinement
not to exceed one year and no less than one-hundred and eighty (180) days and ordered
into a counseling program to address their violent and/or abusive behavior. The Court
may also order a person convicted of the third offense of domestic and family violence to
pay a fine in an amount not to exceed five-thousand dollars ($5,000.00). The Court in its
discretion shall have authority to order restitution pursuant to Section 1-514.
Section 1-409. Right to File for Criminal Relief.
(1)
A person's right to file a criminal complaint shall not be affected by:
(A)
The petitioner's use of reasonable force in self-defense against the
respondent;
(B)
Evidence that the petitioner has previously filed for a protection order and
subsequently reconciled with the respondent;
(C)
abuse;
Evidence that the petitioner has left the residence or household to avoid
(D)
divorce; or
Evidence that the petitioner has not filed for an annulment, separation or
(E)
Evidence that the victim has left the Colorado River Indian Reservation.
(2)
Prosecution of an offense under this Article IV shall not preclude prosecution of
any other offense under the Colorado River Indian Tribes Tribal Code arising out of the
same set of facts.
Section 1-410. Prosecution Without a Willing Victim Witness
Prosecution of an offense under Chapter 3 of this Article IV shall be pursued even
without a willing victim witness if there is probable cause to show the commission of
such criminal offense.
Section 1-411. Victims Assistance; Duty of Law Enforcement Officer
(1)
A law enforcement officer who responds to an incident involving family violence
shall use all reasonable means to protect the victim, hold the perpetrator
accountable and prevent further violence, including but not limited to:
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(A)
Taking the action necessary to provide for the safety of the victim and any
family or household member.
(B)
violence.
Confiscating any weapon involved in the alleged domestic or family
(C)
Transporting or obtaining transportation for the victim and any child to a
shelter or place of safety.
(D)
Assisting the victim in removing essential personal effects.
(E)
Assisting the victim and any child in obtaining medical treatment,
including obtaining transportation to a medical facility.
(F)
Giving the victim immediate and adequate notice of the rights of
victims, as contained in the laws of Colorado River Indian Tribes, and of the
remedies and services available to victims of family violence.
(2)
As part of the notice required by paragraph (F) of Subsection (1), the law
enforcement officer shall give a written notice to the adult victim substantially as follows:
(A)
“If you are the victim of domestic or family violence and you believe that
law enforcement protection is needed for your physical safety, you have the right to
request and the officer shall assist you in providing for your safety, including facilitating
the obtaining of an order of protection when courts are closed. You may also request and
the officer shall assist you in obtaining your essential personal effects and locating and
taking you to a safe place, including but not limited to a designated meeting place for a
shelter, a family member’s or a friend’s residence, or a similar place of safety. If you are
in need of medical treatment, you have the right to request and the officer shall
assist you in obtaining medical treatment. A Victims’ Rights Advocate, Shelter
Advocate, Behavioral Health Service Counselor, Child Support Services Case Worker or
a Social Services Case Worker may be called on your behalf. The officer shall provide
you with a copy of the report at no cost from the law enforcement department.”
(B)
“You may ask the prosecuting attorney to file a criminal complaint.
However, the decision whether or not to prosecute ultimately lies with the prosecutor. You
also have the right to file a petition in Tribal Court of the Colorado River Indian Tribes
requesting an order for protection from domestic or family violence.
(C)
“Any full or ex parte order of protection granted pursuant to Article 4,
Chapter 4 of the Domestic Relations Code shall be to protect the petitioner from abuse
or stalking and may include all the terms under Article IV, Chapter 5 of the Domestic
Relations Code”
(D)
“The forms you need to obtain an order for protection are available from
the Tribal Court of the Colorado River Indian Tribes. The resources available in this
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community for information relating to family violence, treatment of injuries, and places of
safety and shelters are available from the Police Department, the Department of
Behavioral Health Services, the Department of Child Protective Services, and the
Department of Social Services. You also have the right to seek reimbursement for
losses suffered as a result of the abuse, including medical and moving expenses, loss of
earnings or support, and other expenses for injuries sustained and damage to your
property.”
(3)
The written notice must not include the addresses of shelters, unless the location
is public knowledge.
Section 1-412. Rights of Victims of Domestic or Family Violence; Duty of
Prosecutor to Inform Victim of Rights.
(1)
A victim of domestic or family violence is entitled to:
(A)
be informed of all hearing dates and continuances;
(B)
receive a copy of the arresting officer's report at no cost;
(C)
provide the Court with a victim-impact statement, victim-opinion statement,
and an assessment of the risk of further harm;
(D)
be present at all court hearings and to address the Court upon request;
(E)
recommend and advise the Court of conditions of pre-trial release and
probation necessary to ensure the safety of the victim and other family or household
members;
(F)
receive restitution for losses sustained as a direct consequence of any
criminal conduct.
(2)
The prosecutor must notify in writing the victim of domestic or family violence of
the victim's rights set forth in this section.
Chapter 5. CIVIL, PROTECTION ORDERS, PENALTIES
Section 1-501. Protection Orders; Commencement; Right to File
(1)
A proceeding to obtain a protection order shall be commenced by the filing of a
petition by:
(A)
violence;
Any adult or emancipated person claiming to be the victim of abuse and/or
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(B)
Any adult family member or adult household member of a person claimed
to be the victim of abuse and/or violence, on behalf of the alleged victim; or
(C)
The Prosecutor.
(2)
A petition may be filed regardless of the pendency of any other civil or criminal
proceeding related to the allegations in the petition.
(3)
The petitioner or the victim on whose behalf a petition has been filed, is not
required to file for annulment, separation or divorce as a prerequisite to obtaining a
protection order.
(4)
A petitioner's right to apply for relief under this Article IV shall not be affected by:
(A)
The petitioner's use of reasonable force in self-defense against the
respondent;
(B)
Evidence that the petitioner has previously filed for a protection order and
subsequently reconciled with the respondent;
(C)
abuse;
Evidence that the petitioner has left the residence or household to avoid
(D)
divorce; or
Evidence that the petitioner has not filed for an annulment, separation or
(E)
Evidence that the victim has left the Colorado River Indian Reservation.
Section 1-502. Availability of Petition; Filing Fees.
(1)
Standard, simplified petition forms with instructions for completion shall be
available to persons not represented by counsel. The Colorado River Indian Tribes
Police Department and the Tribal Court shall keep such forms and make them available
upon request.
(2)
No filing fee shall be required for the filing of a petition under Section 1-501.
(3)
If an alleged perpetrator has been arrested for an offense under this Article IV,
the Court or the arresting Officer shall advise the alleged victim of the right to file a
petition under Section 1-501 without cost.
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Section 1-503. Contents of the Petition.
(1)
A petition shall allege the existence of an act of abuse and/or violence or an
offense under this Article IV, and shall be verified or supported by an affidavit made
under oath stating the specific facts and circumstances justifying the requested order.
(2)
The petition shall state whether any other action is pending between the
petitioner or victim and the respondent.
Section 1-504. Ex-Parte Temporary Protection Order Procedure; Notice of
Hearing; Hearing.
(1)
Upon the filing of a petition for a protection order, the Court shall immediately
grant an ex-parte, temporary protection order without bond if, based on the specific
facts stated in the affidavit or the verified petition:
(A)
The Court has probable cause to believe that the petitioner or the person
on whose behalf the petition has been filed is the victim of an act of abuse and/or
violence or an offense under this Article IV committed by the respondent; and
(B)
Issuance of the ex-parte, temporary protection order is necessary to
protect the victim from further abuse and/or violence.
(2)
Upon the filing of a petition for a protection order, the Court shall cause a notice
of hearing to be served immediately on the respondent.
(A)
The service shall be made pursuant to Section 108 of the Law and Order
Code.
(B)
In the event personal services cannot be completed in time to give the
respondent the minimum notice required under Section 108 of the Law and Order Code,
the Court may set a new hearing date not to exceed fifteen (15) days.
(3)
Upon the filing of a petition for a protection order, the Court shall hold a hearing
within fifteen (15) days after the filing of a petition to determine whether to grant a
permanent order of protection.
Section 1-505. Protection Order; Non-Defenses.
(1)
The following shall not be considered a defense in a proceeding for the issuance
or enforcement of a protection order under this Article IV:
(A)
Intoxication;
(B)
Substance abuse;
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(C)
Spousal immunity; or
(D)
Provocation.
Section 1-506. Protection Order; Contents.
(1)
An ex-parte, temporary protection order or a permanent protection order entered
after notice and hearing shall, when deemed appropriate by the Court, include
provisions:
(A)
Restraining the respondent from committing any acts of domestic and
family abuse and/or violence.
(B)
Excluding the respondent from the residence of the victim, whether or not
the respondent and the victim share that residence.
(C)
Restraining the respondent from any contact with the victim for an amount
of time that may be valid up to one (1) year or as determined by the Court.
(D)
Restraining the respondent from stalking the victim.
(E)
Awarding custody or establishing visitation rights with regard to minor
children of the respondent on a basis which gives primary consideration to the safety of
the victim and the minor children.
i.
ii.
iii.
If the Court finds that the safety of the victim or the children will be
jeopardized by unsupervised or unrestricted visitation, the Court
shall set forth conditions or restrict visitation as to the time, place,
duration, or supervision, or deny visitation entirely, as needed, to
guard the safety of the victim and the children.
Any custody order may provide for child support for the person
having custody of the children in amounts deemed reasonable and
necessary by the Court.
The Court's deliberation under Section 1-504 shall in no way delay
the issuance of a protection order.
(F)
Awarding use and possession of personal and real property of the
respondent.
(G) Restraining one or both parties from transferring, encumbering,
concealing, selling, or otherwise disposing of real or personal property as authorized by
the Court, except if done in the usual course of business or for the necessities of life,
without the written consent of the parties or permission of the Court, and requiring that
an accounting shall be made to the Court for all such transfers, encumbrances,
dispositions, selling and expenditures.
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(H)
Ordering the respondent to timely pay any existing debts of the
respondent, including mortgage or rental payments, necessary to maintain the victim in
his/her residence.
(I)
Describing any prior orders of the Court relating to domestic matters which
are superseded or altered by the protection order.
(J)
Notifying the parties that the willful violation of any provision of the order
constitutes contempt of court punishable by a fine or imprisonment or both and
constitutes a violation of this Article IV for which penalties and fines may be assessed.
(K)
Ordering respondent to submit to alcohol and drug testing when there is a
reasonable suspicion of drug and/or alcohol use.
(L)
Ordering respondent to attend and successfully complete alcohol and drug
education, treatment and/or other counseling services.
(M)
Ordering respondent to attend and successfully complete domestic and
family violence education, treatment and/or counseling services.
(N)
Ordering
treatments.
respondent
to
comply
with
current
prescribed
medical
(O) Ordering, in the Court's discretion, any other lawful relief as it deems
necessary for the protection of the victim, including orders or directives to the Colorado
River Indian Tribes Police Department.
2)
In cases involving elders and dependent adults, upon a showing of evidence
sufficient to establish probable cause to believe that abuse or serious neglect of the
elder or dependant adult has occurred, or is likely to occur, the Court may do the
following:
(A) Declare an elder or dependent adult a temporary ward of the Court and
issue a Temporary Protection Order for a period not to exceed one (1) year. The Court
shall notify the Department of Health Services of its order, and furnish the Department
with a copy of all relevant documents. Upon receipt of the Court’s Order, the
Department of Health Services, through its designated sub-department, shall do the
following:
(i)
(ii)
Initiate an investigation of neglect and abuse within twenty-four (24)
hours of receipt of the Court’s Order.
File a motion to continue or dismiss the temporary wardship within
thirty (30) days of receipt of the Court’s Order.
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(a)
The motion shall state the facts supporting either the
continuance or dismissal of the wardship order for the affected Elder or Dependent
Adult.
(b)
The designated sub-department shall furnish the Court with
a progress report for review hearings at least once.
(B)
The Court shall set a review hearing every sixty (60) days while the
Temporary Protection Order is in effect.
(C)
The Court may renew a Temporary Protection Order for an affected Elder
or Dependent Adult as many times as necessary until a safe alternative care
arrangement can be made for the Elder or Dependent Adult.
(3)
In cases involving children, procedures under the Children’s Code shall apply.
(4)
The Court may order restitution pursuant to Section 1-514.
(5)
When the Court issues a protection order it shall inform the petitioner and
respondent that the Court must formally modify or vacate the protection order before the
parties may have further contact, the respondent may return to the residence or act
contrary to any other conditions of the protection order.
Section 1-507. Protection Order; Duration; Modification.
(1)
The provisions of the protection order shall remain in effect for the period of time
stated in the protection order, not to exceed one (1) year. The Court may for good
cause shown at the request of any party, extend the protection order for a period not to
exceed six (6) months.
(2)
The petition and protection order may be amended or modified regardless of
whether or not there is a pending lawsuit, complaint, petition, or other action between
the parties.
(3)
Either party may request a hearing to modify a protection order.
(4)
The Court may conduct hearings to review the protection order every ninety (90)
days or sooner as necessary.
Section 1-508. Protection Order; Service.
Protection orders are to be served personally upon the respondent by an Officer, Court
Bailiff, or Registered Process Server. If the respondent cannot be located, the
protection order will be mailed, pursuant to Section 108(c)(1), Notices and Service of
Law and Order Code, by registered or certified mail, to the respondent's last known
address, and upon application with the Court, notice will be posted.
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Section 1-509. Protection Order; Assistance of Police Department in
Service or Execution.
When a protection order is issued, the Court may order an Officer to accompany and
assist any victim in taking possession of the victim's dwelling or residence, or otherwise
to assist the Court in execution, enforcement or service of the protection order.
Section 1-510. Copy of Protection Order to Police Department.
Each protection order granted under this Article IV, shall be forwarded by the Judicial
Clerk immediately to the Colorado River Indian Tribes Police Department. The Police
Department shall make available to each Officer information as to the existence and
status of any such orders.
Section 1-511. Violation of Court Order.
Intentional, willful or knowing violation of an order issued under this Article IV shall
constitute contempt of court punishable pursuant to Section 341 of the Colorado River
Indian Tribes Law and Order Code.
Section 1-512. Order to Show Cause.
The Court may issue an Order to Show Cause against the victim if the victim
intentionally, willfully or knowingly initiated contact with the perpetrator causing the
perpetrator to violate the terms of the protection order.
Section 1-513. Civil Fine.
(1)
Any person who intentionally, willfully or knowingly violates or fails to comply with
any provision of any protection order issued under this Article IV after notice and
hearing, upon first offense may be assessed a civil fine not to exceed five-hundred
dollars ($500.00). The Court in its discretion shall have authority to order restitution
pursuant to Section 1-514.
(2)
A person who intentionally, willfully or knowingly violates or fails to comply with
any provision of any protection order issued under this Article IV after notice and
hearing, upon a second offense within one (1) year of the commission of the first
offense may be assessed a civil fine not to exceed two-thousand dollars ($2,000.00).
The Court in its discretion shall have authority to order restitution pursuant to Section 1514.
(3)
A person who intentionally, willfully or knowingly violates or fails to comply with
any provision of any protection order issued under this Chapter 4 of this Article IV after
notice and hearing, upon a third offense within one (1) year of the commission of the
second offense may be assessed a civil fine not exceed to five-thousand dollars
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($5,000.00). The Court in its discretion shall have authority to order restitution pursuant
to Section 1-514.
Section 1-514. Restitution.
(1)
When appropriate the Court may order the perpetrator to pay restitution to the
victim under this Article IV. The order of restitution under this Section 1-514 shall direct
the perpetrator to pay the victim the full amount of the victim's losses as determined by
the Court pursuant to this Section 1-513(3).
(2)
The restitution order be enforced by all available and reasonable means.
(3)
An order of restitution also may be enforced by the victim named in the order to
receive the restitution in the same manner as a judgment in a civil action.
(4)
The term "full amount of the victim's losses" includes any costs incurred by the
victim for:
(A)
Medical services relating to physical, psychiatric, or psychological care;
(B)
Physical and occupational therapy or rehabilitation;
(C)
Necessary transportation, temporary housing, and child care expenses;
(D)
Lost income;
(E)
Attorneys' fees, plus any costs incurred in obtaining a civil protection
order; and
(F)
Any other losses suffered by the victim as a proximate result of abuse
and/or violence under this Article IV.
Section 1-515. Expulsion.
Expulsion of a non-member of the Tribes under this Article IV shall be pursuant to the
procedures set forth in the Law and Order Code, Article V.
Chapter 6. LIABILITY, COMITY, SEVERABILITY.
Section 1-601. Liability.
No Officer shall be held criminally or civilly liable for making an arrest authorized by this
Article IV, provided he/she acted in good faith and without malice.
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Section 1-602. Comity.
(1)
Any protection order issued pursuant to this Article IV shall be effective
throughout the Colorado River Indian Reservation.
(2)
Absent federal law to the contrary, the Court shall have jurisdiction to determine if
full faith and credit will be given to protection orders of courts of other jurisdictions in
matters involving tribal members and all residents of the Reservation.
(3)
Upon determining that a foreign court had jurisdiction to enter a protection order
pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 2265, the Court may enforce the order recognizing that
protection order and accord it full faith and credit.
Section 1-603. Severability.
If any section or sections, provision, or the application of any section, of this Article IV is
adjudged to be unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
judgment shall not affect the validity of the remaining sections of this Article IV. The
Tribal Council hereby declares that it would have passed the remaining parts of this
Article IV even if it had known that such part or parts or application of any part thereof
would be declared unconstitutional or invalid.
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This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.