Connecticut is about to reach an agreement with the Mashantucket Pequots and Mohegans to expand the law enforcement powers of their tribal police departments, according to a state official.
Mike Lawlor, Connecticut undersecretary for criminal justice policy, said the state and tribes are preparing final drafts of an agreement, according to published reports.
Last year, the state legislature authorized the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection to give tribal police law enforcement powers, including at the tribal-owned casinos.
The tribes have agreed to recognize and follow state laws, but would gain the authority to carry out tasks typically reserved for state troopers, reducing the need for a state police presence—which the tribes pay for—at their casinos.
