Chief Tackna was best friends with Prentice's dad growing up which is why Robert spent a lot of time on the reservation. He is a very wise man who understands the legends and mysteries of the town. He is no longer the active Chief of the nation but he is still the respected individual who has a lot of say on what happens.
He knows everything about the things Prentice and gang come across during their investigations and is not afraid to help out when he needs to. He will also protect the people of the town despite the age old treatment his people received, he is an active and important member of the town who cares for it deeply.