: Part 1, Earl Cowan – Police Chief, Swinomish Indian Tribe
Episode 168, Oct 28, 04:01 AM
Being a Police Officer at a major US university prepared Earl Cowan to become a law enforcement professional on American Indian Tribal lands. And he’s now their Chief of Police.
This week, Murph talks with Earl Cowan, a former police officer at the University of Central FL, and now the Chief of Police for the Swinomish Tribe in northern Washington state. While recounting some humorous law enforcement stories, they discuss the complexities of tribal law enforcement, including the authority and jurisdiction of tribal police, the importance of collaboration with local and federal law enforcement agencies, and the unique challenges faced by indigenous communities, particularly regarding substance abuse and mental health. Earl emphasizes the significance of building trust within the community and the need for law enforcement to prioritize their own mental health and wellness.