Oneida Times

New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-C-Rome, announced today that legislation he introduced to support public safety in Central New York, the Mohawk Valley, and on Oneida Indian Nation lands has been signed into law.

The legislation (S.8692-A/A.9441-A) permits Madison and Oneida counties to enter agreements with the Oneida Indian Nation to house inmates in their jails under orders issued by the Oneida Indian Nation Court. This continues Sen. Griffo’s long-standing advocacy for increased collaboration between regional governments and law enforcement agencies.

The historic 2013 Agreement between the Oneida Indian Nation, New York State, and Oneida and Madison counties resolved legal disputes and fostered a new era of cooperation in the region. It enabled Sen. Griffo’s new legislation while generating over $700 million in Silver Covenant payments to support local public safety initiatives and other programs. The agreement also allowed deputization of Oneida Indian Nation Police Department officers by county sheriffs' offices to increase officer availability and enhance agency coordination.

Under the new law, criminal defendants may be remanded to county facilities under directives from the Oneida Indian Nation Court consistent with federal regulations.

Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter, D-Syracuse, sponsored the bill in the Assembly.

“I am pleased that this bill has been signed into law by the governor and thank Assemblywoman Hunter for working with me on this issue,” said Sen. Griffo. “This legislation will support law enforcement efforts in the region and is a further expression of inter-governmental cooperation between the Oneida Indian Nation and Oneida and Madison counties.”

"This legislation represents a significant step forward in strengthening bonds between local and tribal law enforcement,” said Assemblywoman Hunter. "By enabling closer collaboration among entities, we are creating a safer environment for all residents."

Oneida Indian Nation Representative Ray Halbritter stated: “The collaboration between our police department, Sheriff’s Offices has made our communities safer... This legislation will deepen our partnership.”

Madison County Board Chairman James J. Cunningham added: “The county-tribal detention agreement further strengthens our partnership... Our officers have worked together for years.”

Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood commented: “This new legislation allows us to further support each other... keeping individuals closer to their community benefits everyone.”

Oneida County Sheriff Rob Maciol remarked: “Our strong partnership keeps our county safe... We are a successful model of how local and tribal law enforcement can achieve great things.”

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr., noted: “This agreement reinforces our commitment to public safety... Together, we are building safer communities.”