SIOUX FALLS - Brendan Johnson, U.S. attorney for South Dakota, has completed his term as chairman of a Justice Department panel dealing with Native American Issues.

Johnson had been chairman of the Native American Issues Subcommittee since 2009. He says the Justice Department has worked with tribal officials to empower tribal courts, increase law enforcement cooperation and improve public safety in reservation areas.

Attorney General Eric Holder has appointed Timothy Q. Purdon, U.S. attorney for North Dakota, to replace Johnson as chair of the Native American Issues Subcommittee.

Johnson says he will continue to advise the attorney general as a member of panel of U.S. attorneys that look at policy, management and operating issues that affect U.S. attorneys.

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