File photo.

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Press release from the Hoopa Valley Tribe:

The Hoopa Valley Tribe strongly condemns the decision by Humboldt County Superior Court Judge Wilson to temporarily release the juvenile suspects charged in the March 10, 2026 killing of Hoopa Tribal member Dylan Moon for ceremonial purposes.

This decision has caused profound pain and outrage throughout our community. Equally troubling is that the families of the victims were not notified in advance and instead learned of the release only after seeing the suspects present during ceremonial gatherings. No family should be forced to experience such unnecessary trauma.

The Hoopa Valley Tribe recognizes the importance of our ceremonies, traditions, and cultural practices. However, those sacred traditions should never come at the expense of the dignity, safety, or emotional well-being of victims’ families. Justice requires careful consideration of both the rights of the accused and the lasting harm suffered by those whose lives have been forever changed by violent crime.

The release of individuals accused of taking the life of one of our Tribal members undermines public confidence in the justice system and has created understandable fear, anger, and uncertainty throughout the Hoopa Valley and neighboring river communities. Decisions of this magnitude must also account for the safety of the public and the emotional impact on victims, witnesses, and families who continue to grieve.

The Hoopa Valley Tribe stands in unwavering support of Dylan Moon’s family and all those affected by this tragedy. We will continue to advocate for a justice system that honors victims, protects our communities, and recognizes the devastating consequences that these decisions have on Tribal families.

We respectfully call upon the Humboldt County Superior Court and all agencies involved to ensure that future decisions involving the release of individuals accused of violent crimes include meaningful consideration of community safety, transparency, and timely notification to victims and their families.

The Hoopa Valley Tribe remains committed to protecting our people, honoring the memory of Dylan Moon and all victims whose lives have been taken by violence, standing beside the families who continue to grieve, and pursuing justice with integrity, accountability, and unwavering respect for every member of our community affected by these tragic acts.

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