The Washington State Patrol Government and Media Relations team this week welcomed Patti Gosch, the first full-time tribal liaison in department history.

This position comes after the passing of 2nd Substitute House Bill 1713 earlier this year, establishing two tribal liaison positions within the State Patrol. These positions will work to build relationships that increase trust between government organizations and native communities. Specifically, she will facilitate WSP communication among:

• Indian tribes;

• Urban Indian organizations and communities;

• Tribal liaisons in other state agencies;

• Law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, local and tribal level; and nongovernmental entities that provide services to Native American women

Responsibilities include developing best practices protocol for law enforcement response to missing person’s reports for indigenous women and other indigenous persons. This position will also provide guidance on the inclusion of tribal issues in the development of agency plans, programs, and policies.

Gosch has prior experience working with native communities as a tribal law enforcement liaison for the past 20 years.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Gosch to the team,” said Chief John Batiste. “This work will bridge gaps that have existed between law enforcement and previously underrepresented communities.”

WSP is in the process of hiring its second tribal liaison, who will work in Eastern Washington.