WINDOW ROCK, AZ – On the second day of the Spring Session, the 25th Navajo Nation Council confirmed the appointment of Michael Anderson to serve as the Director for the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety (NNDPS).
Anderson, who has dedicated his career to public safety, was confirmed following a rigorous review of his background in law enforcement, judicial roles, and community leadership. Before the vote, Council Delegates questioned Anderson about his vision and goals related to making communities safer, increasing accountability, allocating resources, and overall efficacy within the Division of Public Safety.
“It is essential that we have accurate data to secure the necessary resources for our communities,” said Council Delegate Brenda Jesus. “I trust that Director Anderson will prioritize this.”
Council Delegate George H. Tolth, a former police officer, asked Director Anderson why the NNDPS has not proposed or increased the number of substations across his region. He emphasized that an increased law enforcement presence is needed to impact the increase in crime, drugs, and abuse on the Nation. Delegate Tolth said that often community calls for a police officer go unanswered.
Delegate Simonson stressed the importance of providing proper equipment to law enforcement.
“Understanding the needs and issues of law enforcement is critical – we need to take better care of our officers by providing adequate protection and equipment,” said Delegate Simonson.
Upon his confirmation, Director Anderson shared his vision for a unified and robust Division of Public Safety. “My goal is to bring all departments under one umbrella to foster a strong, communicative, and cooperative environment,” said Anderson. “We also aim to elevate our police officers to federal officer status to effectively tackle serious crimes across our Nation.”
The Council approved Legislation No. 0059-24 with a vote of 10 in favor and four opposed.