“Welcome to our Council meeting in Lehi, it’s a real special occasion today,” began Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Council member Deanna Scabby on June 12 at the Lehi Community Center. The Council meeting featured a swearing-in ceremony for three new judges who will be serving the Community.

All members of SRPMIC Tribal Council were in attendance during the Council meeting in Lehi. SRPMIC President Martin Harvier was excused and Vice-President Ricardo Leonard was away on travel.

As Presiding Judge Darayne Achin approached the front of the Community Center to begin the swearing-in ceremony, Council member Deanna Scabby provided an additional update to Community members. “I’d like to publicly announce that Raymond Deer has been chosen by the Council to be the presiding judge,” she said as Deer waved and acknowledged the members in attendance.

“The presiding judge shall assign cases, provide administrative management, develop internal procedures, assist in performance appraisals of all judges and provide an annual accountability report to the Community. Thank you, Judge Deer. Congratulations,” Scabby said.

Judge Achin then officially swore in the three new judges: Licensed Judge Joshua Heath, Associate Judge Janaya Johnson and Associate Judge Aristina Sanchez. That was followed by rousing applause.

“We have a really amazing tribal court; I just think it’s amazing. This is a huge step for us. We’re excited to see the tribal courts grow and prosper. Someday one of you may be the presiding judge,” said Scabby.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, SRPMIC Council members took some time to celebrate and honor Judge Achin as she neared her retirement on June 17. Everyone congratulated her on her 32 years of service and career achievements. She was presented with a commemorative plaque and blanket.

“Oh, my,” said an appreciative Judge Achin as Council members Mikah Carlos and Wi-Bwa Grey arranged the blanket over Judge Achin’s shoulders. “Congratulations on a wonderful career, and thank you,” said Grey.