Tribal authorities undecided on charges against state senator

HELENA (AP) — Blackfeet officials have yet to make a decision on whether to file charges against Democratic state Sen. Shannon Augare for allegedly fleeing a traffic stop.

Blackfeet tribal prosecutor Carl Pepion said Thursday his office is still reviewing the case. He declined further comment.

A Glacier County deputy pulled over Augare May 26 on U.S. Highway 2 nine miles west of Cut Bank and within the reservation's boundaries.

The sheriff's office says the deputy identified Augare as a Blackfeet tribal councilman and observed that he appeared to be impaired.

Augare allegedly said the deputy had no jurisdiction and drove off as the deputy reached in the vehicle to take his keys.

The sheriff's office cannot make an arrest of a tribal member for an offense on the reservation.