YNN Tribal Council
Emergency Custody Order for Trenity Briella Price (aka Winona Malka Shalit)
In the Matter of the Welfare of Trenity Briella Price, a Minor
Office of the Executive Council Member Micco Dyami
Date: 04/04/2025
I. Emergency Custody Order Overview
In accordance with the sovereign authority of the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe, and pursuant to Tribal Law and the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribal Council hereby issues this Emergency Custody Order for Trenity Briella Price (aka Winona Malka Shalit), declaring that she shall remain in the custody of her Indian Custodian, Trenton David DeAngelo Price, her biological father.
This emergency order is issued in response to the abusive circumstances surrounding Trenity Briella Price's current living situation. After a thorough review of the evidence, including but not limited to the domestic battery incidentreported to law enforcement on August 22, 2022, the Yahcalo Ndigena Supreme Tribal Council has voted in favor of this order, recognizing the imminent risk to the child’s well-being if she were to remain in the care of Blanca Rodriguez(the mother).
II. Declaration of Child as a Ward of the Tribe
As part of this Emergency Custody Order, the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe formally declares Trenity Briella Price a ward of the tribe. This declaration is made based on the ongoing concerns for her safety, well-being, and the need for immediate protection. By being declared a ward of the tribe, Trenity Briella Price will be under the Tribe's full jurisdiction for matters concerning her welfare, care, and custody. The Tribe asserts its authority and responsibility in safeguarding the child from any further harm, and prioritizes her emotional, physical, and cultural welfare in accordance with Tribal and federal law.
III. Failure of DCFS and Lancaster Juvenile Dependency Court
The Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe expresses serious concern regarding the failure of both the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and the Lancaster Juvenile Dependency Court to adequately protect Trenity Briella Price during her placement in the custody of Blanca Rodriguez. Despite evidence of continuous harassment and violent acts by Blanca Rodriguez against Trenton David DeAngelo Price, including the August 22, 2022 incident where the mother physically assaulted the father in front of the child, DCFS and the Juvenile Dependency Court failed to intervene appropriately to ensure the child’s safety.
The Tribal Council recognizes that Blanca Rodriguez’s actions, including the violent incident, pose a serious danger to the welfare of the child and that it is not in the best interest of Trenity Briella Price to remain under her care. The Tribunal’s decision to issue this emergency custody order is made to protect the child from further harm, ensuring her safety and well-being.
IV. Immediate Custody of the Child
As the Indian Custodian of Trenity Briella Price, Trenton David DeAngelo Price shall have full authority and responsibility for the care, custody, and protection of the child, pending further proceedings. The Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe affirms that it is in the best interest of the child to remain in the custody of her father, who has demonstrated his ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for her.
This Emergency Custody Order is issued due to ongoing concerns regarding Trenity Briella Price's safety, particularly in light of the August 22, 2022 incident where the child was exposed to physical violence by her mother, Blanca Rodriguez, and where her well-being was further endangered by the events surrounding this abuse. The abuse, including the physical assault and emotional distress caused by the incident, has prompted the Tribe to intervene to ensure that Trenity Briella Price is protected from further harm.
V. Review and Vote by the Yahcalo Ndigena Supreme Tribal Council
This Emergency Custody Order was reviewed and approved by the Yahcalo Ndigena Supreme Tribal Council, which voted unanimously in favor of issuing the order and placing Trenity Briella Price under the care and custody of her father, Trenton David DeAngelo Price, based on the child’s best interests and the evidence presented. The decision was made following a thorough investigation and deliberation regarding the history of abuse and the potential danger posed to the child by her continued exposure to such circumstances.
The Yahcalo Ndigena Supreme Tribal Council affirms its legal and moral obligation to act in the best interests of the child, and to provide for her safety and well-being in accordance with the Tribe’s laws and the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).
VI. Filing of ICWA Custody Proceedings in a USA Court
Given the grave concerns surrounding the welfare of Trenity Briella Price, and the history of this mother not following court orders, in addition to violating other parents parental rights and or time with the child the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe orders the immediate filing of ICWA Custody Proceedings in the appropriate California Family Law Court (Los Angeles County). This action will be taken to ensure that the custody matter is adjudicated in compliance with both ICWA and California State Law. Including
The Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe recognizes that, although the Tribe maintains primary jurisdiction over matters concerning its children, the USA Court must adjudicate this matter as part of the ICWA Custody Proceeding in order to protect the child’s interests, uphold her rights under the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), and formalize the custody arrangement.
The Tribe respectfully requests that the USA Court give full recognition to this Emergency Custody Order and place Trenity Briella Price under the custody of her father, Trenton David DeAngelo Price, while the ICWA proceedings are conducted.
VII. Child’s Rights under ICWA and Tribal Jurisdiction
As the biological father and Indian Custodian, Trenton David DeAngelo Price is entitled to full legal rights under ICWA to maintain custody of his child, Trenity Briella Price, and ensure that her cultural heritage, tribal identity, and best interests are upheld in the proceedings. The Tribe affirms that Trenity Briella Price is entitled to the protections offered by ICWA and will assert full jurisdiction over the custody matter through both Tribal and U.S. courts, as applicable.
The Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe also asserts its jurisdiction over the custody matter due to its sovereign authority to protect its members, especially in matters relating to the welfare of children within the Tribe. The Tribal Judicial Powers, under the guidance & authority of the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribal Council, will continue to oversee the case to ensure the child’s safety and the proper enforcement of her rights under Tribal and federal law.
VIII. Conclusion
In accordance with the Yahcalo Ndigena Supreme Tribal Council’s vote, Trenity Briella Price is hereby placed in the custody of her father, Trenton David DeAngelo Price, as Indian Custodian under this Emergency Custody Order, effective immediately. The Tribe, and or the parent will proceed with the filing of an ICWA Custody Proceeding with the California Family Law Court to ensure full adjudication of this matter in accordance with ICWA and California State Law.
The Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe remains committed to ensuring that Trenity Briella Price’s safety, emotional well-being, cultural heritage, familial ties are preserved, and that her rights as a Native American child are fully upheld under all relevant laws and proceedings.
Attachment/Exhibit A: Custody Order & Parenting Plan
By the Authority of the Executive Council Member Micco Dyami,
Micco Dyami
Executive Council Member, (818-633-4924)
Yahcalo Ndigena Nation, Yahcalo Ndigena
Approved by the Yahcalo Ndigena Supreme Tribal Council
Date: April 04, 2025
Attachment/Exhibit A: Custody Order & Parenting Plan
Yahcalo Ndigena Nation Supreme Tribal Council
Official Custody Order and Parenting Plan for Trenity Briella Price (aka Winona Malka Shalit)
In the Matter of the Welfare of Trenity Briella Price, a Minor
Office of Executive Council Member Micco Dyami
Date: 04/04/2025
I. Custody Order
In accordance with the sovereign authority of the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe, and in recognition of the child's best interests and protection under Tribal Law and the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), this Custody Order is issued regarding the legal and physical custody of Trenity Briella Price (aka Winona Malka Shalit).
A. Primary Residence
It is ordered that the primary residence of Trenity Briella Price shall remain with Trenton David DeAngelo Price, the father and Indian Custodian of the child, at his current residence located at [Insert Address].
B. Visitation Rights of the Mother
The mother, Blanca Rodriguez, shall have visitation with the child, Trenity Briella Price, as follows:
Every other weekend from Friday at 6:00 PM until Sunday at 6:00 PM, starting from the date of this order.
Visitation exchanges shall occur at a neutral location, namely the [Insert local Law Enforcement Agency], to ensure the safety of the child and the avoidance of any potential conflicts or disputes.
II. Peaceful Contact Order
To ensure the emotional and physical safety of Trenity Briella Price, a Peaceful Contact Order is hereby issued to both parties:
A. No Conflict or Endangerment
Neither party shall engage in any form of physical, verbal, or emotional conflict that could endanger the welfare of Trenity Briella Price. Any actions or behaviors that compromise the child’s safety, well-being, or emotional health will not be tolerated, and may result in further action by the Tribe’s court.
B. Protection Against Malicious Actions
Both parties are prohibited from engaging in any actions that intentionally cause harm, distress, or emotional damage to the child. This includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, coercion, or verbal or physical abuse in front of the child.
III. Child Exchange Locations and Safety Protocols
A. Exchange Locations
In the interest of maintaining safety and minimizing conflict between the parties, all exchanges of Trenity Briella Pricebetween Trenton David DeAngelo Price and Blanca Rodriguez shall occur at the 750 E Ave Q Palmdale, 93550. The use of a law enforcement agency ensures that there are neutral parties present to safeguard the child’s welfare during each exchange.
B. Welfare and Safety Protection
Any violation of the peaceful contact order or failure to follow these safety protocols may result in immediate intervention by the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribal Council, including review of the custody arrangement and potential modification of visitation rights to further protect the child’s best interests.
IV. Jurisdiction Based on Montana v. United States (1981) and Consensual Relationships
The Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe asserts its sovereign jurisdiction over this matter based on the principles established in Montana v. United States (1981), a landmark case that clarified the scope of tribal jurisdiction over non-members in certain circumstances. According to Montana v. United States (1981), a tribe has jurisdiction over non-members in situations where:
The non-member has entered into a consensual relationship with the tribe or one of its members (such as a contract, agreement, or ongoing interactions that affect the welfare of the tribe).
The activities of the non-member affect the political, economic, and cultural interests of the tribe, particularly when the activities in question interfere with or impact tribal sovereignty or the welfare of its members.
A. Extending Jurisdiction to Non-Members
In this case, the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe is exercising jurisdiction over both parties in this custody dispute because Trenton David DeAngelo Price is a member of the Tribe, and the child, Trenity Briella Price, is a descendant of the Tribe. Blanca Rodriguez, though a non-member, is understood to have entered into a consensual relationship with the Tribe and its members due to her connection to Trenton David DeAngelo Price and her role in the child’s upbringing. As such, the Tribe asserts its jurisdiction over Blanca Rodriguez in this custody matter, as her actions directly affect the welfare of the child and the cultural and familial integrity of the Tribe.
V. Best Interests of the Child
The Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe affirms that this custody and visitation plan is issued with Trenity Briella Price’s best interests at the forefront. The Tribe recognizes the child’s need for emotional stability, a safe living environment, and the protection of her physical and emotional welfare. It is the intent of this Custody Order and Parenting Plan to ensure that Trenity Briella Price is provided a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment while maintaining a meaningful relationship with both parents, to the extent that this relationship is safe for the child.
VI. Duration of the Order
This Custody Order and Parenting Plan shall remain in effect for one year from the date of issuance. The parties are required to adhere to the terms outlined in this order for the duration of this period, after which the matter may be reviewed for modification if necessary.
VII. Enforcement of the Order in California Courts
This Custody Order may be filed with the California Courts of Los Angeles County for full enforcement of the order under International, Federal, and Tribal Law. The California Courts shall recognize and enforce this order to the extent permitted under the applicable laws, including the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and the sovereign rights of the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe.
VIII. Membership and Descendancy
It is affirmed that Trenity Briella Price is a member of the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe and a descendant of the Eastern Band of Cherokee. As such, the child’s custody is governed by the best interests of the child under Tribal Law and in accordance with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).
IX. Sovereignty of Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe
The Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe is a sovereign tribal entity recognized under international customary law. This sovereignty is acknowledged by both domestic and international legal principles, and the Tribe’s jurisdiction over matters concerning its members, including custody proceedings for tribal children, is protected by its inherent rights as a recognized sovereign entity. The Tribe exercises its sovereign authority in full accordance with international law and treaties concerning the protection of children’s welfare.
X. Special Terms for Tribal Official - Trenton David DeAngelo Price
A. National & Tribal Official Standards
As a Tribal Official Leader and Faith-Based Cultural Minister, Trenton David DeAngelo Price is held to the highest National and Tribal Official Standards. By his oath of office, Trenton David DeAngelo Price has pledged to protect and defend the welfare of the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe and its members, to uphold & enforce the Constitution, Tribal, and Spiritual Laws, and to abide by them fully in his capacity as a tribal official.
B. Violations by Trenton David DeAngelo Price
Any violations of this order by Trenton David DeAngelo Price, in his capacity as a Tribal Official, will be subject to serious disciplinary action. This may include, but is not limited to, removal from office, banishment from the tribe, and further legal actions as prescribed by the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribal Council.
C. Civil & Criminal Penalties for Violations by Either Party
Any violation of this order by either party, whether Trenton David DeAngelo Price or Blanca Rodriguez, may result in civil and criminal penalties, including but not limited to fines, additional custody reviews, or other legal action deemed appropriate by the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribal Council and or the California Courts of Los Angeles County including a criminal complaint filed with the district attorney office.
XI. Modifications to the Parenting Plan
Any modification of this Custody Order and Parenting Plan must be done in accordance with the laws of the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe, and any requests for changes to the plan must be submitted in writing to the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribal Court for review and approval. Both parties are encouraged to work together to maintain the welfare of Trenity Briella Price, but any significant alterations or disputes shall be adjudicated by the Tribe’s judicial system.
XII. Enforcement and Tribal Jurisdiction
The Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe asserts full jurisdiction over this matter, and this Custody Order and Parenting Plan shall be enforceable by the Tribe’s Tribal Court, Tribal Council, & or Tribal Officials. In the event of any violations, the Tribal Council has the authority to review the matter and impose further actions, including possible revisions to the Custody Order and Parenting Plan to ensure the continued safety and welfare of Trenity Briella Price.
XIII. Conclusion
This Custody Order and Parenting Plan is issued by the Yahcalo Ndigena Tribe in the best interests of Trenity Briella Price, and both parties are expected to comply with the terms outlined in this plan to ensure the child’s safety, emotional well-being, and overall health.
Signatures
By the Authority of the Executive Council Member Micco Dyami,
Micco Dyami
Executive Council Member,
Yahcalo Ndigena Nation, Yahcalo Ndigena (818-633-4924)
Approved by the Yahcalo Ndigena Nation Supreme Tribal Council
Date: 04/04/2025
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