The pueblo of pojoaque (the pueblo) is a federally recognized tribe located in santa FE county, new mexico

The Pueblo of Pojoaque, a federally recognized Indian tribe in New Mexico, received a $600,000 Project Grant award from the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance under the Tribal Justice Assistance Program (CFDA 16.596). The funding will be used to renovate the Pueblo's judicial complex by adding a gated perimeter fence to better serve the community and protect its officers, tribal court, and staff. The perimeter barrier will also allow for secure impounding of vehicles associated with criminal activity. The award has a project period of October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2028.

The Tribal Justice Assistance Program provides grants to strengthen tribal justice systems and enhance public safety in tribal communities. Typical grant activities include developing and enhancing tribal courts, implementing alternative dispute resolution programs, improving corrections and rehabilitation services, expanding law enforcement capabilities, and addressing substance abuse issues. Awards generally range from $600,000 to $900,000 over 3-5 years.

The new mexico department of transportation estimates 25,000 vehicles pass through the main stretches of highway within the pueblo daily, via U.S. 84/285, N.M. 503, and N.M. 502. Pojoaques jurisdictional boundary spans 20 square miles and is bordered by three other pueblos (SAN ildefonso, namb, and tesuque), as well as five small hispanic communities (cuyamungue, jaconita, EL rancho, arroyo seco, and jacona). This poses tremendous challenges for pojoaque pueblo police departments staff of 23 sworn officers. The pueblo of pojoaque will use grant funds to renovate its judicial complex by adding a gated perimeter fence to better serve the community and protect its officers, tribal court, and staff. The perimeter barrier will also allow for secure impounding of vehicles associated with criminal activity.