Missing Indigenous woman located

Multiple law enforcement agencies investigated a missing persons case beginning on Saturday, April 27. Colville tribal member Amanda Pakootas was missing and reported by police to be held against her will with a man named Joseph Parisien.

She was located April 29 near East Fourth Street and Nelson in Spokane.

She was reported to be safe.

Parisien was taken into custody Tuesday night, April 30, according to a press release from the Colville Tribes, sent out the next day.

“Amanda’s family wishes to thank the law enforcement officers who investigated the case and ultimately found Amanda, including the Colville Tribal Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Washington State Patrol, the Spokane County Police, the Airway Heights Police, the Spokane Tribal Police, and the Kalispel Tribal Police,” the release stated.

The family also wanted to acknowledge HEROS, the Find Me Group, and MMIW, the victim advocacy groups that assisted and supported the family during this traumatic event. They especially wish to acknowledge Detective Jordan McNulty of the Colville Tribal Police for her efforts during the investigation.

“We are very grateful that Amanda was located and returned safely to her family,” said Jarred-Michael Erickson, chairman of the Colville Confederated Tribes. “I want to join Amanda’s family in praising the efforts of Detective McNulty and the other officers of the Colville Tribal Police and the other law enforcement organizations who worked on this case. I also want to thank our entire community for getting the word out and sharing information. Keeping tribal members safe is a top priority for the Colville Business Council, as is seeking justice for those who threaten tribal members.”