LA County Hands Back Bought Native Skulls to Cherokee Tribes
Published Date: 1/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner found five Native American skulls that were bought decades ago and are now ready to be returned to the Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Choctaw Nations. Starting February 17, 2026, these remains can be officially sent back to their tribes. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage and follows important laws protecting their ancestors.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Five Native American Skulls Ready for Return
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner identified five Native American skulls and, after consultation with the Cherokee Nation, the Chickasaw Nation, and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, determined a cultural affiliation. Repatriation of these human remains may occur on or after February 17, 2026; written requests should be sent to Investigator Deanne Morrell at 1104 N Mission Road, Los Angeles, CA 90033 or email [email protected].
Who May Request Repatriation
Any one or more of the Indian Tribes named in this notice may request repatriation, and any lineal descendant or Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization not named may request repatriation if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are affiliated. If competing requests are received, the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation; joint requests are treated as a single request.
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