PARK CITY, Utah (AP) — Interior Secretary Ken Salazar says he stands behind the investigation that resulted in the indictments of two dozen people accused of illegally trafficking in ancient artifacts from the Four Corners region.Responding to a question from The Associated Press on Monday, Salazar says he has no regrets about the investigation and ensuing arrests.
On Saturday, Utah's two U.S. senators said they want Congress to investigate the actions of federal agents who arrested 23 of those indicted last week following a two-year undercover investigation. One of the indicted men was found dead of an apparent suicide.
The senators said the raid was too harsh.
Salazar said federal agents were only following laws intended to protect American Indian artifacts from harm.
Most views in the last week:
Tell us what you think about the 'Navajobama' T-shirt, and we'll send your comments to the manufacturer—and to the Obama for President campaign. (No profanities, please.)
Omission disappoints Native Americans attending the presidential candidate's speech in Wisconsin. Others express concern over Obama's stance on Indian gaming.
The Native actor’s role on 'Law and Order: SVU' is coming to an end, but he plans to stay busy with an Internet TV show, a book and a new baby.
A Tennessee high school, whose mascot is the Indians, takes the Native American motif one step further: It calls school grounds "The Reservation."
Native reaction to Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, McCain's vice presidential choice, is 'pretty mixed,' says one critic. A supporter says Palin 'has been open to and concerned about Alaska Native issues.'
Copyright © 2009 Reznet.
Reznet is a project of The University of Montana School of Journalism.
Comments?