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Blackfeet Nation replaces chairman after arrests at his home

Seal of the Blackfeet Nation

The Blackfeet Nation’s tribal council voted Thursday to remove Chairman Timothy Davis from office following last week's arrests at his residence.

Following the Tribal Business Council's vote, Davis said in a text to Montana Public Radio: "It was unanimous including my vote for relinquishment based on the arrests of my adult children four who are still incarcerated."

The FBI along with tribal law enforcement last week arrested nine people at Davis’ home on charges for the sale of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Drug possession and child endangerment charges were also filed. All who were arrested pleaded not guilty.

Davis was not at home at the time of the arrests and is not among those facing charges.

The council voted to select Iliff Kipp Sr. to replace Davis as chairman.

In a statement, Kipp said the Blackfeet Nation "will continue to move forward in a positive way for all Blackfeet people."

Aaron is Montana Public Radio's Flathead reporter.