“Alcohol related deaths on the Navajo nation are reaching crisis levels,” said Congressman Renzi.  “Far too many Navajo families have experienced the loss of a friend or a loved one at the hands of a drunk driver, devastating the lives of all those involved.  This critical funding from the DOJ will equip the Navajo Police force with the tools they need to combat drunk driving, making our roads safer for our children, parents, and grandparents.  I am pleased with the approval of this important funding, and thank the leadership of the Dine people for working with me to make this possible.”

"Congressman Renzi has continued to fight for additional funding to help the Navajo Nation build our public safety programs and maintain law and order,” said Council Delegate Hope MacDonald LoneTree.  “The people of the Navajo Nation suffer from 6 times the violent crime as the national average.  Further, the Arizona U.S. Attorney’s Office has stated that approximately 90% of violent crime on the Navajo Nation is alcohol related.  Clearly, the alcohol blood alcohol testers and K-9 dogs will help Navajo law enforcement in dealing with alcohol and drug related traffic stops.  We are excited to update our equipment for our law enforcement officers and very grateful to Congressman Renzi for his compassion for our Navajo people."