MMIP education to expand in Cherokee Nation communities

The Cherokee Nation Marshal Service plans to expand its Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons education efforts across Cherokee communities, according to reporting by the Cherokee Phoenix. The initiative aims to increase awareness and promote proactive steps in response to the MMIP crisis.

Shawna Roach, Cherokee Nation Marshal Service investigator, said families and schools need to understand how predators operate, particularly through social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. The Marshal Service also plans in-person events to help locate missing individuals. According to Roach, approximately seven Cherokee Nation citizens are currently listed in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, a number that could be higher due to investigations by other agencies.

Acting Marshal Daniel Mead announced a new QR code system that will allow individuals in danger to discreetly contact dispatch from restrooms in high-risk areas.