LEWISTON, Idaho — The news of Bessie Blackeagle’s murder sent shockwaves through Jolene Cliffe, a former girlfriend of the accused, Travis Ellenwood. Cliffe’s emotions spiraled into turmoil upon learning about Blackeagle’s death, which followed a harrowing pattern of violence that Cliffe herself had previously experienced at the hands of Ellenwood.
On October 31, 2020, Blackeagle was beaten, strangled, and ultimately killed by Ellenwood, who had been her live-in partner. After pleading guilty to second-degree murder in 2021, Ellenwood received a nearly 20-year sentence in federal prison. Cliffe’s own history with Ellenwood involves allegations of severe abuse, including physical violence and sexual assault. Having escaped from a similarly dangerous relationship, she immediately feared the worst when she heard news of Blackeagle’s fate.
Cliffe had reported Ellenwood’s abusive behavior to the Nez Perce Tribal Police multiple times, but her cries for help seemingly went unheard. “This could have been avoided had they listened to me,” she stated, expressing deep regret over the lack of action that may have prevented Blackeagle’s tragic death.
The concerns surrounding the Nez Perce Tribal Police extend beyond Cliffe’s individual experience. An investigation indicates a pervasive belief among tribal members, former police officials, and legal experts that enforcement of the law on the reservation is not always fair or adequate. Accountability seems compromised, as some individuals feel that law enforcement’s ineffectiveness allowed perpetrators to continue their violent behavior.
In May 2022, the Nez Perce Tribe’s General Council issued a vote of no confidence against the police department, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction about its performance. As concerns mounted over unresolved cases and inconsistent policies, Channa Henry, a former tribal police officer, introduced a resolution to seek reforms. Henry highlighted the urgent need to address the lack of prosecution and unresolved criminal cases within the community.
A memo obtained by investigators revealed that the Bureau of Indian Affairs substantiated claims of misconduct involving key figures in the Nez Perce Tribal Police. Allegations pointed to issues such as retaliation and untruthful reporting by law enforcement over a range of serious incidents. Three former officers, including the police chief and a criminal investigator, were implicated in actions deemed detrimental to the department’s mission of public safety.
In response to inquiries regarding these troubling findings, tribal communications manager Rachel E. Wilson stated that the Nez Perce Tribe is committed to high standards in law enforcement. She assured that significant improvements are underway following leadership changes, including the recent appointment of Chief Mark Bensen in late 2023.
As the community grapples with the implications of past failures in addressing domestic violence and crime, victims like Cliffe live with the painful realization that their warnings might have saved lives. The tragedy of Blackeagle’s death serves as a stark reminder of the need for meaningful reform and accountability within tribal law enforcement agencies.
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