District of New Mexico
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
F.A. United States Attorney Ryan Ellison Encourages Schools, Youth Organizations to Partner with DOJ on Online Child Exploitation PreventionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE - First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison is encouraging New Mexico schools, youth-serving organizations, athletic programs and other community groups to take advantage of free training and prevention resources available through the Department of Justice to help protect children from online sexual exploitation and abuse.
The call comes as the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) launches an expanded effort to engage schools and other organizations in preventing online exploitation of children. In an open letter issued this week, Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva encouraged organizations that work with children to partner with the Department on prevention and education efforts and highlighted resources available to help communities address emerging threats, including online grooming, sextortion, sadistic online exploitation and the misuse of artificial intelligence to create sexually explicit deepfake images of children.
The initiative builds on prevention efforts already underway in New Mexico. In June, the New Mexico Collaborative Human Trafficking Task Force hosted a free virtual Online Grooming & Child Sex Trafficking Awareness Training for parents and caregivers. The two-hour training featured federal prosecutors, law enforcement agents and community experts who discussed online grooming and exploitation, practical prevention strategies, and how adults can recognize and respond to the victimization of children.
“We cannot expect children to navigate these threats on their own,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison. “The adults who teach, coach, mentor and care for them need to understand how online exploitation happens, what warning signs to look for and what to do when a child is at risk. We want to put the experience of our prosecutors and investigators to work for New Mexico communities before a child becomes a victim.”
Training can be arranged virtually or in person, depending on the needs of the organization. The Department of Justice’s CEOS provides free prevention programming to schools and other organizations through in-person presentations and webinars and can help connect organizations with prevention experts. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico can also help connect New Mexico organizations with Assistant U.S. Attorneys and federal agents with experience investigating and prosecuting online child exploitation and related offenses who can provide education and outreach in their areas of expertise.
Organizations interested in arranging prevention programming or learning more about available resources can contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico at [email protected] or CEOS at [email protected]. CEOS's prevention resources are available through the Department of Justice's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section Prevention webpage.
Albuquerque Woman Pleads Guilty to Arson of Hotel Storage WarehouseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque woman pleaded guilty to maliciously setting multiple fires that damaged and nearly destroyed a storage warehouse used by two Albuquerque hotels.
According to court documents, on October 14, 2024, Samantha Lee, 41, maliciously started several fires inside a storage warehouse on Menaul Boulevard NE in Albuquerque, New Mexico, that was used by the Crowne Plaza Hotel and The Querque Hotel to store furniture, carpeting, kitchen appliances, air conditioning units, linens, and other materials. The fires spread throughout the warehouse, causing significant structural damage and nearly destroying everything inside.
Image shows AFR's response Image showing damage to structureFire investigators identified five areas where fires originated and, after reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses, traced a woman seen approaching and placing items near the areas where the fires started to Lee.
Circle K surveillance footage of LeeLee pleaded guilty to arson. At sentencing, she faces five years in prison followed by up to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Elena Stiteler is prosecuting the case.
Zuni Man Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter in Fatal CrashRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has been charged with involuntary manslaughter after allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol in a crash that killed a passenger and injured two children.
According to court documents, on June 7, 2026, Caine Aric Chimoni, 28, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, was allegedly driving a pickup truck when the vehicle rolled onto its side. A woman who was a passenger in the vehicle was found unresponsive and was pronounced dead at the scene. Two children also were in the vehicle and sustained injuries.
Chimoni was transported to a local hospital, where he allegedly admitted to officers that he had been driving and may have been under the influence of alcohol. Blood testing showed a blood alcohol concentration of 162 mg/dL, indicating that Chimoni was intoxicated above New Mexico’s legal limit. One of the injured children was transported to a regional hospital for treatment.
Chimoni is charged with involuntary manslaughter and will be released under the supervision of Federal Pretrial Services. If convicted of the current charge, Chimoni faces up to eight years in prison. Defendant will remain in custody pending trial.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Shiprock Woman Charged with Assaulting Federal Officer, Endangering Three ChildrenRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock woman has been charged with assaulting a federal officer after allegedly running over a Navajo Police Department officer with a vehicle and fleeing the scene with three young children inside.
According to court documents, on August 21, 2026, Alondria Hope Benally, 24, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly assaulted a Navajo Police Department officer at a shopping center parking lot in Shiprock, New Mexico. The officer initially responded to reports of a drunk driver in a white SUV with three young children inside. When the officer arrived and attempted to question Benally, she smelled alcohol on her. The officer observed three minor children, two of whom were unrestrained inside the running vehicle.
When the officer attempted to detain Benally to prevent her from fleeing, Benally put the vehicle in gear, crashing into the police unit. As the officer attempted to pull her from the vehicle, Benally stepped on the gas and turned the vehicle’s wheel causing the officer to fall under the vehicle. The officer’s right leg was run over by the vehicle before Benally drove away down Highway 491.
The officer suffered injuries, including a chipped bone in her right leg, extreme pain, and widespread abrasions. Responding officers located Benally and attempted a traffic stop. Benally led police on a high-speed pursuit exceeding 80 mph through the Navajo Nation with the three young minors in her vehicle. Officers ultimately detained Benally, and they observed damage to her vehicle's front passenger fender consistent with the assault.
Benally is charged with assaulting a federal officer and three counts of child abuse. She will remain in third party custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Benally faces up to 20 years in prison on the assault and up to three years imprisonment on the counts of child abuse.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allysa B. Gambarella is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Las Cruces Brothers Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Two Las Cruces brothers were sentenced in federal court for drug trafficking and firearms offenses after law enforcement seized fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and multiple firearms during searches of their residence and vehicle.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on March 7, 2024, agents with the FBI and Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics executed a search warrant at a residence in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where brothers Eddie Linarez, 32, and Nathan Quintana, 28, lived. Before executing the warrant, agents observed Linarez leave the residence in a truck and return shortly afterward. Agents detained Linarez in the driveway and searched his vehicle and the residence.
During the search of Linarez’s vehicle, agents found a backpack containing 58 net grams of pure methamphetamine, 88.6 net grams of fentanyl, 31.5 net grams of cocaine, a loaded firearm and approximately $7,000 in cash.
Bag containing scattered cash and a small black handgun.During the search of the residence, agents found five firearms in Quintana’s bedroom, including two rifles and two handguns under the bed and a handgun on the windowsill near a bag containing fentanyl. Three of the firearms were loaded. In the closet, agents found 120 net grams of fentanyl and 735.9 net grams of cocaine. Agents also found additional fentanyl and methamphetamine, a digital scale with narcotics residue and approximately $2,000 in cash in common areas of the residence.
Bags of white substances, blue pills, and a handgun Stacks of paper currency spread across a wooden table A black handgun with its detached magazine sits on a wooden table alongside several small plastic bags containing white substances and blue billsOn March 6, 2025, FBI and Metro Narcotics agents executed a second search warrant at the residence. Linarez was observed approaching the residence as agents were executing the warrant. When agents attempted to stop him, Linarez fled in a vehicle at a high rate of speed. During the pursuit, he drove around a stopped school bus with its stop sign extended and lights activated, entering oncoming traffic. Agents later lost sight of Linarez and ended the pursuit. Linarez remained a fugitive for six days before surrendering to law enforcement.
During the March 6, 2025, search, agents found approximately 120 grams of fentanyl, 89.6 grams of cocaine, approximately $3,841 in suspected drug proceeds and a loaded handgun in the residence.
Linarez pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was sentenced to 168 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
Quintana pled guilty to two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was sentenced to 147 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics. Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Aragon Martinez prosecuted the cases.
Albuquerque Man Sentenced for Series of Armed Bank Robberies Across Albuquerque and Rio RanchoRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for carrying out four armed bank robberies across Albuquerque and Rio Rancho between January 2024 and July 2025.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, between January 2024 and July 2025, Daniel Ray Guliford, 40, committed four armed bank robberies in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho, stealing more than $140,000 and terrorizing bank employees and customers.
During each robbery, Guliford wore a dark or gray hoodie, black face mask, gloves and dark clothing and brandished a handgun. He forced customers and employees to the ground and, during several robberies, ordered bank employees to open the vault.
The robberies included:
- January 4, 2024 – Guliford stole approximately $9,250 from U.S. Bank in Albuquerque. Investigators later recovered his fingerprints from a note left at the bank.
- March 21, 2024 – Guliford stole approximately $26,650 from U.S. Bank in Albuquerque after forcing employees to the ground and demanding that a teller open the vault. A witness later identified a black BMW associated with Guliford as the vehicle used to flee the robbery.
- July 5, 2024 – Guliford stole approximately $72,043.99 from New Mexico Bank & Trust in Rio Rancho after threatening employees and demanding that they open the vault. A witness photographed a black BMW without a visible license plate leaving the area.
- July 24, 2025 – Guliford stole approximately $31,261 from First Financial Credit Union in Albuquerque after brandishing a handgun and ordering employees to open the vault. Surveillance footage captured a black BMW matching Guliford’s vehicle near the credit union.
A teller who witnessed the January and March 2024 robberies later spotted what he recognized as the robber's BMW at a Dion’s Pizza in Albuquerque. Investigators determined the vehicle was registered to Guliford. Following the final robbery, investigators searched Guliford’s residence and recovered a firearm matching the appearance of the firearm used during the robberies, approximately $28,530 in cash, bank money bands and clothing matching that worn during the robberies.
Guliford pled guilty to four counts of bank robbery with a dangerous weapon and one count of using, carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Upon his release from prison, Guliford will be subject to two years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department, Rio Rancho Police Department, Sandia Pueblo Police Department and Pueblo of Isleta Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Elena Stiteler is prosecuting the case.
Crownpoint Woman Charged with Stabbing Victim During AltercationRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Crownpoint woman is facing federal charges after allegedly stabbing a man in the chest while he was already unconscious during an altercation.
According to court documents, on July 19, 2026, Louanndra Tymria Wally, 23, was involved in an altercation at a residence in Crownpoint, New Mexico. During the altercation, an individual was allegedly pushed to the ground and assaulted. The victim, John Doe, intervened in the altercation on behalf of the person pushed down. Doe was then allegedly punched in the face, knocking him unconscious. While Doe was lying unconscious on the ground, Wally allegedly approached him with a knife and stabbed him once in the chest.
The victim was transported to a hospital in Crownpoint and later flown to a regional hospital for treatment.
Witnesses identified Wally as the assailant and provided nine videos showing the altercation, including the stabbing. Investigators reviewed the videos and observed Wally approach John Doe while he was lying on the ground and stab him in the chest.
Wally is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. She was released to a halfway house pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Wally faces up to 20 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Algodones Man Charged with Murder in Alleged Retaliatory ShootingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Algodones man is facing federal charges for allegedly shooting and killing another man in what investigators believe was retaliation for the victim’s prior killing of a San Felipe Pueblo woman.
According to court documents, on August 15, 2026, federal law enforcement officers responded to a report of a shooting at a residence in Algodones, New Mexico. Upon arrival, officers found the victim, an enrolled member of the San Felipe Pueblo, deceased in the back seat of his vehicle. An autopsy determined the victim died from a shotgun wound to the torso fired at close range.
Investigators determined that Elijah Sandoval, 47, an enrolled member of the San Felipe Pueblo, was at the residence with the victim and two other men when Sandoval allegedly approached the victim with a shotgun and shot him.
Investigators believe the shooting was motivated by the victim’s prior killing of a San Felipe Pueblo woman in 2008. According to court documents, one witness told investigators that Sandoval referenced the woman’s son immediately before shooting the victim. The victim had previously admitted to killing the woman and was convicted and sentenced to federal prison for that offense.
Sandoval is charged with second degree murder and discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. He will remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Sandoval faces up to life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Burkhead is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Shiprock Man Sentenced for Violent AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 27 months in prison for an assault that left a victim with life-threatening injuries.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on November 18, 2025, Darrell Joe Ben, Jr., 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted his ex-girlfriend while he was intoxicated. Officers detained Ben at the scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital and received treatment for critical injuries, including a hematoma, an orbital fracture, nasal fractures, multiple broken ribs, and lung damage that necessitated the use of a ventilator. She was transferred to an intensive care unit in Albuquerque for further treatment.
Ben pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury of a dating partner. Upon his release from prison, Ben will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Teleky prosecuted the case.
Shiprock Man Sentenced for Firing Gun at PasserbyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 48 months in prison for firing multiple shots at a passerby.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on March 13, 2025, Isaiah Benally, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, fired multiple shots at a passerby on Navajo Route 509. Two bullets struck the ground near the passerby, who was not injured but told law enforcement he feared for his life. Benally then remained inside a nearby residence and refused repeated commands from law enforcement to exit. Benally eventually exited the residence and was taken into custody without incident. A subsequent search of the residence recovered an unloaded handgun and multiple rounds of ammunition from Benally’s bedroom.
Benally pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon. Upon his release from prison, Benally will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson prosecuted the case.
Shiprock Man Sentenced for StabbingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to two years in prison for an assault which resulted in serious bodily injury.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on August 31, 2025, Tony Tsosie, 57, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was involved in an assault in Shiprock, New Mexico. Tsosie was arrested on September 3, 2025, and pleaded guilty on April 14, 2026, to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. He will serve one year of supervised release following his prison sentence.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
Former Union Treasurer Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Union FundsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – The former treasurer of a New Mexico labor organization pleaded guilty to embezzling union funds for unauthorized personal expenses and concealing the misuse through false financial reports submitted to the Department of Labor.
According to court records, from 2014 through February 2024, Max Jaramillo, 58, served as treasurer of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, Local 331, where he was entrusted with safeguarding union funds and accurately reporting the union’s financial activities. From January 2015 through November 2023, Jaramillo used union funds for unauthorized personal expenses and concealed his misuse of the money by submitting false and incomplete financial reports to the Department of Labor and the union’s members. On March 15, 2023, Jaramillo submitted an annual report to the Department of Labor that falsely represented and omitted material information about how union funds had been spent. Among the unauthorized expenditures, Jaramillo used $49.98 in union funds to purchase a bottle of Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey for himself on July 1, 2022.
Jaramillo pleaded guilty to embezzlement by an officer of a labor organization. At sentencing, he faces up to 20 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
The Department of Labor’s Office of Labor Management Standards investigated this case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
Three Las Cruces Men Plead Guilty to Federal Firearms Charges Following Young Park ShootingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Three local men have pleaded guilty to federal firearm charges following a September 2025 shooting investigation near Young Park and Hermosa Heights Elementary School.
According to court records, Las Cruces Police Department officers responded to reports of shots fired at Young Park on September 6, 2025, and recovered numerous shell casings from the parking lot. Shortly afterward, officers encountered John Anthony Orta, 24, and Steven Mendoza, 22, walking near Hermosa Heights Elementary School while carrying loaded firearms. Orta was carrying a handgun, and Mendoza was carrying a partially disassembled pistol loaded with two rounds of ammunition. Both men later pleaded guilty to possessing firearms in a school zone after admitting they knowingly possessed the firearms within 540 feet of school property. Both men were intoxicated and were initially arrested for Negligent Use of a Deadly Weapon under state law.
During the subsequent investigation, law enforcement executed search warrants for Orta's and Mendoza's cell phones and reviewed social media messages discussing the shooting. Those messages identified Luis Angel Ruiz, 23, as the individual who fired the shots at Young Park and claimed ownership of the pistol found on Mendoza. Investigators corroborated that information through eyewitness statements, social media posts depicting Ruiz with the firearm, and ballistic evidence.
On September 24, 2025, Las Cruces police stopped Ruiz for traffic violations and arrested him for driving under the influence. During the stop, officers recovered four firearms from the vehicle, including a handgun with an obliterated serial number. Ruiz admitted the firearms belonged to him and later admitted he knew the serial number on the handgun had been obliterated. Investigators also recovered social media messages in which Ruiz attempted to sell the firearm.
Orta and Mendoza pled guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm in a school zone. Orta was sentenced to six months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. At sentencing, which has not been scheduled, Mendoza faces up to five years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
Ruiz pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm in school zone and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. At sentencing, he faces up to five years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office's Southern New Mexico Safe Streets Gang Task Force investigated this case with assistance from the Las Cruces Police Department's Street Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo is prosecuting the cases.
Former New Mexico State Representative and Business Owner Convicted in Federal Bribery, Fraud and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – After a nine-day trial, a federal jury convicted former State Representative Sheryl Williams Stapleton and her friend Joseph Johnson on all counts with which they were charged stemming from a yearslong scheme in which Stapleton used her position at Albuquerque Public Schools and in the legislature to steer millions of dollars in funding to Johnson’s company and secretly received approximately $1.15 million from the company.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from about July 1, 2013, through June 30, 2021, Stapleton, 69, used her position at Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) as Director of the Perkins Project and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator to direct approximately 40% of APS’s non-personnel CTE funding to Robotics Management Learning Systems (Robotics), a Washington, D.C., company owned and operated by Johnson, 75, for use of and support for the CyberQuest software in APS classrooms. From 2013 through 2021, APS paid Robotics approximately $3.25 million under contracts for the software and related services, including approximately $2.52 million in federal Perkins funds.
During that time, Stapleton served as a New Mexico state representative for District 19 from 1995 through 2021 and was majority floor leader from 2017 through 2021. While serving in the Legislature, she sponsored and advocated for legislation and capital outlays that directed additional funding to APS for CTE programs. She then used her position at APS to direct CTE funding to Robotics and facilitate contracts for the company through procurement exemptions, sole-source contracts and, later, a request for proposals.
As APS’s CTE official, Stapleton reviewed and approved Robotics’ invoices and directed employees under her supervision to approve them. APS issued checks to Robotics and mailed them to a post office box in Albuquerque. Stapleton personally retrieved APS’s checks from the post office box and deposited them into the Robotics bank account. Johnson provided blank checks from the Robotics business account, which Stapleton used to distribute Robotics funds for her own benefit.
Stapleton used the Robotics checks to obtain approximately $1,152,506, or approximately 38% of the funds APS paid to Robotics. She directed approximately:
- $286,772 to S. Williams & Associates, a company she owned and controlled;
- $313,123 to Taste of the Caribbean, an Albuquerque restaurant she owned and her family members operated;
- $479,961 to Ujima Foundation, a nonprofit entity Stapleton and Johnson operated together; and
- $72,649 to other parties for goods and services benefiting Stapleton, including remodeling work on her home.
The Ujima Foundation was nominally established to address educational, social, economic and health issues affecting people of color in New Mexico. During the period in which approximately $479,961 was deposited into Ujima accounts from Robotics, the foundation claimed to distributed approximately $46,700 in scholarships, however bank records only should approximately $2,000 going to scholarships, while most of the remaining funds went to Stapleton’s benefit or were withdrawn in cash.
Stapleton and Johnson concealed their financial relationship and the flow of funds from APS to Robotics and ultimately to Stapleton and entities she controlled. Stapleton failed to disclose the substantial income she received from Robotics on required state financial disclosures and federal tax returns. Johnson also concealed his financial relationship with Stapleton, including by providing blank Robotics checks and certifying in Robotics’ proposals and agreements that there was no conflict of interest.
“After decades in public service, the defendant chose to put her own financial interests ahead of the students, taxpayers and institutions she was entrusted to serve,” said first assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison. “She held a position of public trust, and the people who placed that trust in her had every right to expect that she would honor it. That trust was not hers to trade for personal gain.”
"Public servants are entrusted to enrich their communities, not line their own pockets," said IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office Acting Special Agent in Charge Scott Brown. "Ms. Stapleton and Mr. Johnson executed an elaborate web of fraud, kickbacks, and money laundering, funneling millions meant for students into personal bank accounts and false tax returns. Today’s verdict proves that no matter how sophisticated the scheme, IRS Criminal Investigation special agents will follow the money trail and hold accountable those who betray the public trust."
"Public corruption strikes at the foundation of our government and erodes the public's confidence in those entrusted to serve them. This conviction demonstrates that using public office to unlawfully enrich oneself will not be tolerated. No position of authority provides immunity from accountability, and there is no level of acceptable corruption," said Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. "We encourage anyone with information about suspected public corruption to contact the FBI or their local law enforcement agency. Together with our partners, we will continue to pursue those who violate the public's trust and bring them to justice."
Stapleton was convicted of conspiracy to defraud the United States, five counts of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, 13 counts of mail fraud and honest services fraud, three counts of making and subscribing false tax returns, nine counts of money laundering, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Following the verdict, the Court ordered that Stapleton be released pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Stapleton faces up to 524 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
Johnson was convicted of conspiracy to defraud the United States, five counts of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, 13 counts of mail fraud and honest services fraud, nine counts of money laundering, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Following the verdict, the Court ordered that Johnson be released pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Johnson faces up to 515 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
At sentencing, the Court will determine whether restitution is appropriate and, if so, the amount to be paid.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Acting Special Agent in Charge Scott Brown of IRS Criminal Investigation's Phoenix Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and U.S. Department of Education - Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Fred Federici and Rick Mendenhall are prosecuting the case.
Albuquerque Man Sentenced for Aiming Laser at Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office HelicopterRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was sentenced to four months in prison followed by two years of federal supervision for aiming a laser pointer at a Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office helicopter and striking the cockpit over a dozen times.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to public court documents, on October 7, 2025, Jorge Pinon Armendariz, 48, aimed a green laser pointer at the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Metro 1 helicopter while it was flying over Albuquerque. Armendariz aimed the laser at the helicopter from two separate locations, striking the cockpit more than a dozen times and hitting the pilot in the eyes.
Using the aircraft’s onboard camera, the crew tracked the laser beam first to a vehicle in the McDonald’s drive-thru at Candelaria and Eubank and then to a nearby residence. Armendariz continued aiming the laser at the helicopter even as the aircraft approached his location, endangering the helicopter crew and the public.
When ground deputies arrived, they observed a man and woman outside. The man, later identified as Armendariz, went inside and then fled. Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office deputies subsequently identified Armendariz as the individual who repeatedly struck Metro 1 with the laser beam that night.
The pilot reported momentary flash blindness, eye irritation, and blind spots lasting 10 to 15 minutes after being struck in the eyes by the laser. The pilot also experienced migraine headaches for 30 to 36 hours afterward, along with continued eye irritation and light sensitivity.
At the time of the incident, Armendariz had an active state warrant for violating conditions of pretrial release in a state case allegedly involving receiving or transferring a stolen motor vehicle and possession of a controlled substance.
Armendariz pled guilty toaiming a laser pointer at an aircraft. Upon his release from prison, Armendariz is subject to two years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jena Ritchey is prosecuting the case.
Shiprock Man Charged with Assault and Assaulting Federal OfficersRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man is facing federal charges after he allegedly strangled a victim during two separate incidents, then threatened and injured officers following his arrest.
According to court documents, on July 18, 2026, Lonnie Begaye, 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly assaulted Jane Doe at a residence in Shiprock, New Mexico. During an argument, Begaye allegedly strangled the victim, making it difficult for her to breathe. The victim's mother, who uses a wheelchair, reportedly attempted to intervene before police arrived and took Begaye into custody.
The investigation further revealed that this was not an isolated incident. During interviews with investigators, the victim reported that on or about May 19, 2026, Begaye allegedly attacked her near an irrigation canal in Shiprock. She stated that Begaye strangled her with both hands, causing her to nearly lose consciousness. The victim reported suffering dizziness, soreness, and other effects after the assault and believed Begaye intended to kill her.
After his arrest on July 18, Begaye allegedly resisted officers, threatened one officer's family, spit blood onto an officer's face, and injured a second officer during a struggle. Both officers sought medical treatment for their injuries.
During a post-arrest interview with investigators, Begaye allegedly stated that he blacked out from alcohol and could not remember the July 18 incident. However, he admitted to previously strangling the victim.
Begaye is charged with two counts of assault by strangulation and assaulting, resisting or impeding a federal officer. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Begaye faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Arizona Man Sentenced for Federal Assault and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man was sentenced to 76 months in prison for assaulting a woman with a rifle after she tried to intervene in a suspected domestic violence incident.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on August 24, 2024, Jane Doe 2 saw Curley Nakai Jr., 25, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, engage in what she believed was a domestic violence incident involving Jane Doe 1. Concerned, she followed the pickup truck in which Nakai was a passenger to the Basha’s grocery store parking lot.
At the parking lot, Nakai exited the truck carrying a rifle, made threatening gestures toward Jane Doe 2, including pointing the rifle at her, and told her to leave. Jane Doe 2 drove some distance away but remained in the parking lot. During the incident, Jane Doe 1 exited the vehicle and walked away.
Nakai pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Upon his release from prison, Nakai will be subject to five years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
Utah Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Woman with KnifeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Utah man admitted he assaulted the victim and threatened her with a pocketknife while she was holding an infant child.
According to court records, on October 11, 2023, Kubert Yanito, 54, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, went to the victims’ residence near Sheep Springs, New Mexico, where he assaulted her by striking, biting, and scratching her. When the victim attempted to leave with her infant daughter, Yanito threatened her with a pocketknife. Yanito fled after family members heard the victim’s cries for help. Yanito had previously been convicted of domestic violence, making him a habitual offender.
Yanito pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon, and according to the plea agreement faces between 60-70 months in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nichola J. Marshall.
Shiprock Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Sexual Abuse ChargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty in federal court to sexually abusing a victim in 2023.
According to court records, in December 2023, Jasper Lee Gray, 63, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, knowingly engaged in sexual acts with Jane Doe without her consent, including through coercion.
Gray pleaded guilty to sexual abuse and faces up to life in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Little Water Man Sentenced for 2024 ShootingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Little Water man was sentenced to 46 months in prison for shooting the victim during a drunken altercation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on July 29, 2024, Anthony Sandoval, 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, and the victim were intoxicated when they got into a disagreement at a residence in Little Water, New Mexico. During the altercation, Sandoval shot the victim with a .22 caliber rifle. Sandoval then called emergency dispatch, reported that he had shot someone, and remained at the scene until law enforcement arrived.
Responding officers found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the head and transported him to a local hospital, where they were later airlifted to a regional hospital for treatment. Before additional officers arrived, Sandoval fled the scene. Law enforcement located and arrested him later that evening at another residence. During the investigation, officers recovered the rifle and collected evidence from the scene. The victim underwent multiple surgeries to treat injuries sustained during the shooting.
Sandoval pled guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon. Upon his release from prison, Sandoval will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
Dulce Man Pleads Guilty to Violent AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Dulce man pleaded guilty to a violent assault that left the victim with serious injuries.
According to court documents, on December 31, 2025, Dennison Billy, Jr., 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, struck an adult victim in the face with his fists while the victim was driving a vehicle in Dulce, New Mexico. Responding officers found Billy highly intoxicated in the passenger seat and the victim nearby with visible blood and multiple injuries. The victim reported exiting the vehicle to avoid further assault and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Billy told law enforcement that he had consumed a large amount of alcohol, blacked out, and did not remember the incident.
The victim sustained serious injuries, including fractures to the orbital wall and nasal bones.
Billy pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. At sentencing, he faces up to 10 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Shiprock Man Charged with Assaulting Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man has been charged in federal court after he allegedly fired at a law enforcement officer during an emergency response in Shiprock.
According to court documents, on July 26, 2026, Navajo Nation Police responded to a report that Marcus Allen Benally, 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was using a rifle to threaten his neighbor in Shiprock, New Mexico. Benally fired in the direction of an officer, striking and damaging a patrol vehicle. Benally fled on foot and was apprehended by a K9.
Benally is charged with assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Benally faces up to 20 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Nation Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Teleky is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Multi-Agency Gang Investigation in Las Cruces Leads to Federal Charges and Seizure of Firearms and NarcoticsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, and Police Chief Jeremy Story of the Las Cruces Police Department announced today that federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies concluded a months-long joint investigation targeting violent gang activity in the Las Cruces area, resulting in federal and state criminal charges, the seizure of firearms and narcotics, and the clearance of multiple violent crimes.
The investigation was led by the Las Cruces Police Department's Street Crimes Unit in partnership with the Las Cruces/Doña Ana Metro Narcotics Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Safe Streets Task Force and the Doña Ana County Sheriff's Office.
During the investigation, law enforcement officers executed approximately 58 legal processes, including search warrants, arrest warrants, and court orders totaling more than 800 pages. The investigation resulted in the seizure of 19 firearms, three machine gun conversion devices, two sets of body armor, approximately 265 grams of methamphetamine, and approximately 200 grams of fentanyl.
A small plastic bag of blue pills sits on a digital scale showing a weight of 18.6 grams. Several small plastic bags containing a white crystalline substance are placed on a digital scale reading 26.5 grams. A workbench with various disassembled firearm parts, magazines, and a tactical vest arranged on the surface.As a result of the investigation, the United States Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico has charged six defendants with federal offenses as part of Summer Heat, the FBI’s nationwide initiative targeting violent crime during the summer months. By surging resources alongside federal, state, and local partners, executing federal warrants on violent criminals and fugitives, and dismantling violent gangs nationwide, the FBI seeks to aggressively restore safety in communities across the country. These cases include:
- Possession of a Firearm in a School Zone
- Discharging a Firearm in a School Zone
- Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number
- Receiving a Firearm While Under Indictment
- Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
- Possession of Body Armor by a Violent Felon
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
In addition, multiple defendants were charged in state court for the following offenses:
- Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon
- Shooting At or From a Motor Vehicle (multiple counts)
- Unlawful Possession of a Handgun by a Person Under Age 19 (multiple counts)
- Possession of Cocaine
Information developed during the investigation also led investigators to solve 11 drive-by shootings in the Las Cruces area.
Because the investigation remains ongoing and additional enforcement actions are anticipated, the identities of the charged individuals are not being released at this time.
Taos Man Sentenced to Life in Prison Plus 120 Months for Brutal 2023 Taos Slaying and CoverupRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A federal judge sentenced Zebadiah Romero, 38, a non-Indian, to life in prison plus 120 months following his convictions for multiple felonies in relation to the cold-blooded murder of a Taos Pueblo man in 2023.
Because there is no parole in the federal system, Romero will spend the rest of his life in prison.
According to evidence presented at trial, on October 30, 2023, Romero, who had been previously evicted and banned from the Taos Pueblo, shot and killed John Doe inside John Doe’s residence on the Taos Pueblo before stealing Doe’s property and concealing evidence. Doe was an enrolled member of the Taos Pueblo. After the killing, Romero removed Doe’s body from the residence and barricaded it within a separate structure on Doe’s property. Romero then stole Doe’s pickup truck and dog before disposing of evidence related to the offense. On November 4, 2023, Taos Pueblo Department of Public Safety officers discovered a blood trail leading from the victim’s bedroom, which ultimately led investigators to Doe’s body inside an adjacent abandoned structure. The victim had been wrapped in bedding material, covered with a tarp, and hidden beneath other miscellaneous items.
The Office of the Medical Investigator determined that Doe died from a single gunshot wound to the back of the head.
At trial, the United States presented extensive evidence placing Romero with Doe on the morning of the murder and eyewitness testimony identifying Romero driving Doe’s truck with Doe’s dog shortly after Doe had been slain. Witnesses recounted Romero’s motive prior to the killing as revenge for his belief that Doe had reported Romero’s criminal activities to law enforcement. Prior to the murder, Romero stated his intent to kill Doe and steal his truck, adding that he would “sleep like a baby and get away with it.”
Among other pieces of evidence, jurors heard Romero’s recorded interviews with the FBI following his arrest. In those interviews, Romero gave shifting accounts of the events inside the home before ultimately acknowledging that he shot Doe and removed evidence, including the spent casing and the murder weapon. Trial evidence also showed that Romero, a previously convicted felon, unlawfully possessed the firearm used in the killing and later disposed of it.
The jury found Romero guilty of first-degree murder, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and larceny of the victim’s truck.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Taos Pueblo Department of Public Safety and the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jesse E. Pecoraro and Mark A. Probasco are prosecuting the case.
Deming Man Sentenced for Machinegun Offenses and Fleeing Border Patrol CheckpointRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Deming man was sentenced to 101 months in prison after admitting he possessed a machinegun in furtherance of cocaine trafficking and fled a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint, leading agents on a pursuit that reached approximately 140 mph on Interstate 10.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents and Lopez's plea agreement, on February 11, 2025, an undercover law enforcement officer conducted a controlled purchase of cocaine from Gerald Anthony Lopez, 20. During the transaction, Lopez displayed a Glock handgun equipped with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device (MCD), commonly known as a "switch." Lopez offered to sell the firearm for $1,300 with the switch installed or $1,000 without it and stated he could supply additional firearms, conversion devices, and narcotics.
On February 20, Lopez met with an undercover law enforcement officer and sold cocaine and the Glock handgun equipped with the MCD for $1,300. During the sale, Lopez demonstrated how the switch converted the firearm from semiautomatic to fully automatic fire and confirmed the extended magazine was loaded with 30 rounds. In his plea agreement, Lopez admitted that he knowingly possessed and carried the machinegun in furtherance of his cocaine trafficking, that he understood the switch converted the firearm into a machinegun, and that he had personally modified the firearm with the device.
In a separate incident on May 6, 2025, Lopez fled from a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint in Luna County after agents referred him to secondary inspection. According to court documents and Lopez's plea agreement, he led agents on a high-speed pursuit, reaching speeds of approximately 140 mph on Interstate 10, where the posted speed limit was 75 mph.
Lopez pleaded guilty to high-speed flight from an immigration checkpoint, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, illegal possession of a machinegun, and possession of a firearm not registered with the national firearms registration and transfer record. Upon his release from prison, Lopez will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Chief Patrol Agent Jesse D. Muñoz of the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the firearms offense in partnership with the New Mexico State Police. The U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector is investigating the immigration-related offense. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
Machine gun conversion devices and auto sears are illegal devices that transform semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons capable of continuous firing with a single trigger pull. The possession, manufacture, and sale of these devices without proper licensing is a federal offense carrying severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000.
The proliferation of these devices poses an immediate and critical threat to public safety. Between 2018 and 2023, the ATF recovered thousands of machine gun conversion devices, indicating an alarming trend in their availability and use. Violent street gangs are increasingly employing these devices, devastating communities and neighborhoods with unprecedented firepower.
This dramatic increase in illegal automatic weapons puts both civilians and law enforcement at extreme risk. Officers responding to incidents may find themselves severely outgunned, facing weapons capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute. The potential for mass casualties in such encounters is staggering.
Law enforcement agencies are working to seize these illegal devices racing against time to intercept these devices before they can be used in violent crimes. Public cooperation is crucial in combating this threat. If you have information about illegal firearms or conversion devices, please contact the ATF immediately:
Call: 1-888-ATF-Tips (1-888-283-8477)
Email: [email protected]
Visit: www.atf.gov/atf-tips
Your tip could save lives and prevent these dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands. The time to act is now, before our community falls victim to the devastating impact of these illegal automatic weapons.
Sanostee Woman Pleads to 2022 AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Sanostee woman pleaded guilty in federal court to using a rifle to seriously injure one individual and threaten another during an August 2022 incident.
According to court documents, on August 20, 2022, Leticia Washburn, 42, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, retrieved a rifle during an argument and threatened two individuals with the weapon. During the confrontation, she discharged the rifle, striking one victim in the abdomen and causing serious bodily injury.
Washburn pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and using carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. At sentencing, she faces no less than seven years and up to life in prison followed by up to five years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Marshall is prosecuting the case.
Zuni Man Sentenced for Triple HomicideRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the deaths of three individuals on July 4, 2025.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on July 4, 2025, Willis Kylestewa, 42, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, drove while intoxicated with four passengers in a vehicle without working headlights. When law enforcement attempted a traffic stop, Kylestewa fled, speeding and swerving through traffic before losing control of the vehicle, which flipped and crashed. Kylestewa and three passengers were ejected from the vehicle and two died after being ejected. Another passenger died inside the vehicle. At the hospital, Kylestewa’s blood alcohol level was .317, and THC was also detected in his system.
Kylestewa pleaded guilty to three counts of second-degree murder. Upon his release from prison, Kylestewa will be subject to five years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department and Zuni Open Space. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas J. Marshall and Amy Mondragon are prosecuting the case.
Zuni Man Accused of Stabbing Two PeopleRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has been charged in federal court in connection with the stabbing of two individuals.
According to court documents, on July 24, 2026, Roger Pino, 44, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, allegedly confronted two individuals outside a residence in Zuni, New Mexico, while armed with a knife and demanding the return of his property. During the confrontation, Pino allegedly cut one victim before stabbing a second victim in the chest and slashing his face. Witnesses reported that Pino continued waving the knife and making threats as he left the scene before fleeing to another residence, where he was later arrested by officers with the Zuni Police Department. Investigators recovered a knife believed to have been used in the assault.
Medical personnel determined that the male victim suffered a stab wound to the chest and a facial laceration. The female victim sustained multiple superficial stab wounds, including injuries to her chest, arm, and leg.
Pino is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing. If convicted of the current charge, Pino faces up to 10 years in prison on each count. Defendant will remain in custody pending trial.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Las Cruces Man Charged with Federal Firearms Offense After Firing Shots at Catholic ChurchRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man with a prior felony conviction has been charged in federal court with unlawfully possessing a firearm after allegedly firing multiple rounds at a Catholic church.
According to court documents, on May 4, 2026, Las Cruces Police Department officers responded to a reported shooting at St. Genevieve’s Catholic Church in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Officers found five bullet holes in the church’s front glass entrance and recovered five .380 caliber shell casings. Surveillance footage showed a black sedan arriving at the church, after which a man exited the driver’s side and fired multiple rounds at the entrance before leaving the scene.
On May 11, 2026, officers encountered the same vehicle while responding to an attempted burglary call at a Las Cruces business. The driver was identified as Matthew Albain Alarcon, 40 years old. A search warrant executed on the vehicle led to the recovery of a handgun.
During a May 14 interview, Alarcon allegedly admitted to shooting at the church, stating he did so because of his religious beliefs and because he believed he was “the chosen one” to carry out the act. He also admitted that the recovered firearm belonged to him. Alarcon is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to a prior New Mexico felony conviction for possession of a controlled substance.
Alarcon is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Alarcon faces up to 15 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Belen Man Charged After Investigation into Alleged Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Belen man is facing federal charges following an investigation into two online accounts that contained suspected child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, in June 2026, Google submitted two CyberTipline reports to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children after identifying suspected Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) associated with two Google accounts linked to the same phone number. The reports identified a combined 25 files containing suspected CSAM uploaded to the accounts.
Investigators identified David Candido Gomez, 51, as the suspected user of the accounts after obtaining subscriber information associated with the phone number and identifying a device connected to the accounts. Location information placed the device near a residence in Belen, New Mexico, where agents executed a search warrant on July 30, 2026.
During the search, agents seized a cellphone associated with the Google accounts. According to court documents, a forensic review of the device revealed multiple images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, as well as evidence that the device had accessed both Google accounts and contained additional CSAM.
The investigation, including efforts to identify victims depicted in the material, remains ongoing.
Gomez is charged with possession of child pornography. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Gomez faces a maximum of 20 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The New Mexico Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force initiated this investigation, which was later turned over to the FBI Albuquerque Field Office Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory (RCFL) and Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force assisted with the investigation. This prosecution is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Arizona Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man was sentenced to 33 months in prison after admitting he assaulted a woman at her residence.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on September 16, 2024, Kendrick Harvey, 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, went to the home of Jane Doe while he was intoxicated. There, Harvey assaulted Jane Doe and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury to Doe.
Harvey pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Upon his release from prison, Harvey will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this month. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.
In the four-week period ending July 31, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 112 individuals were charged with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 24 individuals were charged with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 189 individuals were charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 49 individuals were charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.
Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 8 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for narcotics trafficking, alien smuggling, theft, resisting arrest, grand theft, forgery, weapons trafficking, transportation of stolen property, narcotics trafficking, child molestation, shoplifting, DUI, and prior immigration offenses.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.
Shiprock Woman Charged in Assault with Metal PipeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock woman was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for allegedly striking a victim with a metal pipe during an altercation.
According to court documents, on July 28, 2026, law enforcement responded to a reported assault at a residence after a victim was transported to the hospital with serious head injuries. Witnesses reported that during an altercation that followed an argument among several individuals who had been drinking alcohol, Desirae Smith, 26, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly struck the victim multiple times with a metal pipe, including blows to the head and arm, attempted to drop a rock on the victim's head after she fell to the ground, and slammed the victim's head against a truck. One witness told investigators he observed the victim bleeding from a large head wound after hearing another individual ask Smith why she was hitting the victim with a pole. Responding officers recovered a metal pipe at the scene that appeared to have blood on it.
Medical records showed the victim suffered two large lacerations to the top of her head that required approximately nine staples.
During a post arrest interview, Smith denied striking the victim with a pipe and claimed the victim's injuries resulted from falling and hitting a truck during the altercation.
Smith is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Smith faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Shiprock Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of MinorRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 25 years in prison for abusing a minor over a four-year period.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, Brian Begay, 31, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, engaged in a pattern of sexual abuse against Jane Doe between 2015 and 2019, beginning when the victim was 12 and continuing until she was 16. In carrying out his abuse, Begay’s conduct involved grooming, threats of harm to Jane Doe and her family, and the use of force against Jane Doe.
Begay pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor and abusive sexual contact. Upon his release from prison, Begay will be subject to ten years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Shiprock Man Charged with Armed CarjackingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man is facing federal charges for allegedly carjacking an SUV at gunpoint and forcing two occupants from the vehicle before fleeing the scene.
According to court documents, on September 28, 2022, Cordalle Landon White, 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly carjacked a vehicle at gunpoint in Shiprock, New Mexico. White is accused of approaching two occupants of a parked SUV, pointing a handgun at one victim, threatening to shoot her, and ordering both victims out of the vehicle before driving away in the stolen SUV.
Navajo Police Department officers later recovered the vehicle in Cudei, New Mexico and found a loaded handgun inside. During the investigation, one victim identified White in a photo lineup, and DNA evidence recovered from the firearm was later linked to White.
White is charged with carjacking and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, White faces up to 15 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Marshall is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Pena Blanca Man Charged with Child AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Pena Blanca man is facing federal child abuse charges for allegedly punching and strangling a minor.
According to court documents, on April 9, 2026, Jonathan Lovato, 41, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Santo Domingo, held down and punched a minor with a closed fist several times before strangling them and causing them to pass out. Following the incident, the minor escaped the residence and went to the home of a family member, who immediately called law enforcement. Officers arrested Lovato at his residence. The minor was treated at a local hospital before being transferred to Albuquerque due to brain bleeding.
Lovato is charged with child abuse and will remain on conditions of release pending trial which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Lovato faces three years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Charged in Alleged Fraudulent Immigration Document SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Hatch woman and a Texas man have been charged in federal court for allegedly conspiring to produce and distribute fraudulent immigration, identification, and employment authorization documents.
According to court documents, in November 2025, Customs and Border Protection officers at the Columbus Port of Entry in New Mexico seized a fraudulent Lawful Permanent Resident card and Social Security card from an individual attempting to enter the United States. During a subsequent interview, the individual stated the documents had been obtained through Teodora Moreno Reyes, 46, of Hatch, New Mexico and a naturalized citizen, who allegedly charged $350 to produce fraudulent immigration and identification documents using customers' personal information.
On April 29, 2026, Moreno Reyes was encountered at the Paso Del Norte Port of Entry in El Paso, Texas, where a border search of her cellphone allegedly revealed numerous images of fraudulent Social Security cards, Lawful Permanent Resident cards, and identification documents, along with messages from individuals seeking fraudulent documents. Investigators also found communications showing Moreno Reyes allegedly forwarded customers' photographs and biographical information to a supplier, who then returned images of completed fraudulent documents and U.S. Postal Service tracking information.
A court-authorized forensic examination of the phone allegedly identified the supplier as Fernando Galvan, 39, of Fort Worth, Texas. Investigators allege that between January 2024 and April 2026, Moreno Reyes and Galvan coordinated the production and distribution of approximately 14 fraudulent Texas identification cards, 76 fraudulent Social Security cards, and 66 fraudulent Lawful Permanent Resident cards.
Moreno Reyes and Galvan are charged with conspiracy and document fraud offenses related to the production and distribution of fraudulent immigration, identification, and employment authorization documents. If convicted of the current charge, they face up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan G. McRae of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, made the announcement today.
HSI Las Cruces investigated this case with assistance from the United States Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Saltman is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Shiprock Man Sentenced for Assault and KidnappingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment for carrying out a series of violent assaults and a kidnapping that resulted in serious injuries to the victim.
According to court documents, on or about June 30, 2025, Darrin Begay, 34, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted the victim by punching, kicking, and strangling them, causing visible injuries to the victim’s face, neck, and arms. Then, on July 2, 2025, Begay went to the victim’s home, threatened to harm the victim’s family members, and forced the victim into a vehicle. Begay then drove the victim away from their residence. He reportedly assaulted the victim again before pushing them out of the vehicle and leaving them on the roadside.
Begay pleaded guilty to assault by strangulation and kidnapping. On July 28, 2026, he was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meg Tomlinson and Nicholas Marshall are prosecuting the case.
Albuquerque Man Charged in Alien Smuggling ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man is accused of recruiting drivers and using his residence as a stash house to facilitate the movement of undocumented noncitizens through New Mexico, including an unaccompanied 17-year-old juvenile.
According to court documents, on May 7, 2026, Border Patrol agents responded to a sensor activation near the Interstate 25 checkpoint north of Las Cruces, New Mexico, and encountered two Mexican nationals, including an unaccompanied 17-year-old juvenile, attempting to circumvent the checkpoint. The individuals told agents they were waiting for a man in a red truck who was supposed to transport them to Albuquerque.
Agents located the driver nearby in a red truck. After waiving his Miranda rights, the driver admitted he had picked up the aliens in El Paso, Texas, dropped them off south of the checkpoint, instructed them to walk around the checkpoint to avoid detection, and planned to pick them up afterward and continue transporting them to Albuquerque. The driver further identified Brian Ramirez, 25, as a coordinator of the smuggling operation and identified stash houses in Albuquerque and the El Paso area used to harbor undocumented noncitizens.
Through subsequent enforcement actions, cellular telephone evidence, and WhatsApp communications showing Ramirez coordinating smuggling loads, directing pickup locations, and communicating with the driver shortly before his arrest, agents confirmed the use of an apartment in southwest Albuquerque as a stash house connected to alien-smuggling activity.
On July 9, 2026, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at the Albuquerque residence and located Ramirez. After waiving his Miranda rights, Ramirez admitted he worked for an alien-smuggling organization by recruiting drivers and using his residence to harbor undocumented noncitizens for payment. Ramirez further acknowledged housing approximately 20 undocumented noncitizens at the residence and stated he had been expecting to receive one or two aliens on May 7, 2026, the same day the driver was apprehended while attempting to transport two undocumented noncitizens, including a juvenile, to Albuquerque.
Ramirez is charged with conspiracy to violate 8 U.S.C. § 1324, bringing in and harboring certain aliens, and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing. If convicted of the current charge, Ramirez faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Chief Patrol Agent Jesse D. Muñoz of the U.S. Border Patrol's El Paso Sector made the announcement today.
The U.S. Border Patrol's El Paso Sector investigated this case with assistance from HSI Las Cruces, ICE ERO, USBP Las Cruces Station Disrupt Unit, El Paso Sector Targeting Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanisha V. Henson is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Mother and Son Charged in Stabbing That Left Victim Critically InjuredRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A mother and son from Zuni have been charged in federal court for their alleged roles in an assault in which two victims were stabbed and one suffered life-threatening injuries.
According to court documents, on June 14, 2026, at a residence on the Zuni Pueblo, Zachary Booqua, 18, and his mother, Kayla Marie Concho, 36, both enrolled members of the Zuni Pueblo Indian Tribe, allegedly assaulted Jane Doe and John Doe while the group was drinking alcohol. Following an argument, Booqua knocked John Doe unconscious and began punching him in the face. When Jane Doe attempted to pull Booqua off, both Booqua and Concho began punching Jane Doe in the face as well. Booqua then stabbed John Doe.
Booqua and Concho are both charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted of the current charges, Booqua and Concho eachface up to 20 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Teleky is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former U.S. Navy SEAL Sentenced for Transporting Explosives to Throw at Law Enforcement at California ProtestsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A former U.S. Navy SEAL who intended to use explosives against law enforcement officers at California protests and whose actions prosecutors argued were motivated by extremist, antisemitic beliefs was sentenced to 16 months in prison.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, on June 12, 2025, Gregory Vandenberg, 49, was traveling from El Paso, Texas, to San Diego, California, to attend the “No Kings Day” protests scheduled for June 14, 2025. While in New Mexico, Vandenberg visited a travel center off Interstate 10 near Lordsburg and purchased six large mortar fireworks, which are designed to shoot high into the air and explode, and 72 M-150 firecrackers, which are designed to sound like gunfire. During this visit, he told the store clerk that he intended to throw fireworks at police officers at the upcoming protests. He asked detailed questions about the amount of gunpowder in the fireworks, their explosive impact, and their ability to harm others. He also discussed taping multiple fireworks together to increase their explosive force. Vandenberg emphasized that he was not interested in the color or display of the fireworks, only in their ability to create explosions and injure law enforcement officers. He also encouraged the clerk to join him at the protests and discussed distributing fireworks to others at the event.
Employees, alarmed by Vandenberg’s statements and his repeated expressions of intent to throw explosives at law enforcement officers, recorded his license plate and contacted law enforcement. Authorities later alleged that Vandenberg intended to use the fireworks against law enforcement personnel during the protests, conduct that prosecutors described as posing a serious risk of injury or death to officers and bystanders alike.
Federal agents tracked Vandenberg to Tucson, Arizona, and arrested him the following morning while he was sleeping in his car at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. Vandenberg initially claimed to be traveling for work (despite being unemployed at the time) and later falsely stated he was visiting friends in Phoenix that weekend.
A search of his vehicle revealed the purchased fireworks, along with clothing displaying antisemitic, anti-Israel, and extremist imagery, including a shirt bearing the Al-Qaeda flag and another calling for the destruction of Judea. Agents also discovered that the home screen on Vandenberg’s phone displayed the Taliban flag. Investigators further determined that Vandenberg had worn a custom-made shirt bearing the word “AMALEK” during his visit to the travel center, which he stated meant “destroyer of Jews.”
A review of Vandenberg’s phone revealed antisemitic, anti-Israel, anti-U.S., and extremist content, including internet searches and messages expressing hostility toward Jews and Israel. According to court records, investigators found messages indicating that Vandenberg viewed the United States government as being controlled by Israel and Jewish people and that those beliefs motivated his desire to target law enforcement officers at the protests. Prosecutors argued that his conduct was driven by extremist, antisemitic views and posed a grave threat to public safety.
On January 12, 2026, following a five-day jury trial, a federal jury convicted Vandenberg of transportation of explosives with intent to kill, injure or intimidate and attempted transportation of prohibited fireworks into California. Upon his release from prison, Vandenberg will be subject to one year of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Tucson Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Phoenix Field Office, Tucson Police Department, U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) El Paso. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
Yatahey Man Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Yatahey man pleaded guilty to federal firearms offenses after assaulting and disfiguring a victim.
According to court documents, on March 28, 2025, and March 29, 2025, Fernando Brown, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted Jane Doe and the assault resulted in temporary but substantial disfigurement.
Brown pleaded guilty to assault resulting in substantial bodily injury and faces up to five years in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Ramah-Navajo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Vanderwagen Man Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Vanderwagen man pleaded guilty to an assault that left the victim with serious injuries.
According to court documents, on March 10, 2025, Larry Begay, 66, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted John Doe with an exercise bar and the assault caused serious bodily injury.
Begay pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury and faces up to ten years in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.
Ten Charged in Grant County Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Ten individuals have been charged in a federal indictment alleging they participated in a Grant County drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl throughout southwest New Mexico between 2023 and 2026.
According to court documents, Margarita Encarnacion Dominguez, 43, is alleged to have led a Grant County drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl between August 2023 and June 2026. The indictment alleges Dominguez obtained narcotics from Arizona-based supplier Marco Elias Martinez, 32, coordinated couriers to transport drugs and cash between Arizona and New Mexico, collected payments through wire transfers and electronic payment applications, and redistributed methamphetamine and fentanyl through a network of family members and associates.
The indictment alleges Martinez supplied Dominguez with multi-pound quantities of methamphetamine and hundreds of grams of fentanyl for redistribution throughout southwest New Mexico. Investigators allege the two regularly communicated about drug shipments, payments, couriers, inventory levels, and customer demand. On multiple occasions, Dominguez allegedly sent couriers carrying thousands of dollars in cash to Arizona to purchase narcotics, while Martinez coordinated the delivery of methamphetamine and fentanyl to New Mexico.
The indictment further alleges that Dominguez relied on several co-conspirators to distribute narcotics and transport drug proceeds. Her son, Danny Joe Muñoz, 26, is alleged to have possessed and distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl obtained through the conspiracy. Her nephew, Joshua Jake Padilla, 33, allegedly sought methamphetamine and fentanyl for redistribution and used cellular phones to coordinate drug transactions. Angelica R’Shae Salas, 32, and Michael Joseph Alirez, 41, allegedly purchased methamphetamine from Dominguez, pooled money to finance narcotics purchases, and made trips to Arizona to retrieve drug shipments on behalf of the organization.
According to the indictment, Patrick Flores, 40, acted as a courier and distributor for the organization and, on August 2, 2024, allegedly delivered approximately 3.1 kilograms of methamphetamine and approximately 200 grams of fentanyl to Dominguez. Cynthia Jimenez, 42, allegedly received distribution quantities of methamphetamine from Dominguez and participated in financing additional narcotics purchases. Tania Diaz, 33, a Mexican national illegally present in the United States, is alleged to have assisted with financial transactions and communications related to drug trafficking activities.
The indictment also alleges members of the conspiracy discussed buying, selling, and exchanging firearms in connection with narcotics trafficking. In addition, Martinez and Flores are charged with conspiring to obstruct justice after allegedly arranging for the seizure and destruction of Dominguez’s cellphone to prevent investigators from accessing communications related to the conspiracy. Martinez is separately charged with transmitting interstate threats after allegedly threatening to kill a courier and the courier’s brother following the loss of a narcotics shipment in April 2025.
The indictment charges Dominguez with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, multiple counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, distribution of methamphetamine, and multiple counts of using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, she faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.
Martinez is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, multiple counts of using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and transmitting interstate threats. If convicted on the most serious drug trafficking charges, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.
Muñoz is charged with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.
Padilla is charged with conspiracy, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, and using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison.
Salas is charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, and using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, she faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison.
Alirez is charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, and using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison.
Jimenez is charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted on the most serious charges, she faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.
Flores is charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and related drug trafficking offenses. If convicted on the most serious charges, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.
Diaz is charged with conspiracy and using a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on the most serious charges, she faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison.
In separate but related cases, Joseph De La Torre, 35, is charged with federal drug trafficking and firearms offenses. According to court documents, agents executing a search warrant at his residence on July 16, 2026, recovered methamphetamine, a substance that tested presumptively positive for cocaine and fentanyl, packaging materials commonly associated with narcotics distribution, and a loaded handgun.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today on behalf of the Homeland Security Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Devon Aragon Martinez, Renee Camacho and Judith Crews are prosecuting these cases.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Region II CORE 7 is comprised of agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations (OFO), U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and Air and Marine (AMO), Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), United States Department of the Interior – Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Joint Task Force North (JTF-N), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), United States Marshal Service (USMS), Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DSS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS), El Paso Police Department (EPPD), New Mexico State Police (NMSP), West Texas / New Mexico High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), Albuquerque Police Department, New Mexico Sixth Judicial District, Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Agency, and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Districts of Western Texas and New Mexico.
An indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Sheep Spring Man Charged in StabbingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Sheep Spring man has been charged in federal court with assault after allegedly stabbing another individual.
According to court documents, on July 12, 2026, Justin Brown, 50, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, attended a gathering in Sheep Springs, New Mexico. After arriving, Brown allegedly became aggressive and, during an ensuing confrontation, stabbed another individual in the left forearm and inflicted cuts on the victim's abdomen and back. The victim fled the scene in a vehicle with another adult and four minor children while Brown allegedly attempted to gain access to the vehicle and pursued it as it drove away.
Medical records showed the victim suffered a stab wound to the left forearm requiring 16 staples, as well as superficial cuts to the abdomen and back.
The investigation further revealed that, earlier in the evening, Brown allegedly threatened another attendee with a box cutter-style knife and sent threatening text messages before the assault. Witnesses reported that a second victim also suffered a cut during the incident.
During a post-arrest interview with investigators, Brown allegedly admitted to using a box cutter to stab the male victim and cut a female victim. Brown claimed he acted because he believed the victims were attempting to harm him.
Brown is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing. If convicted of the current charge, Brown faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Human Smuggling Guides Sentenced After Woman Dies in New Mexico DesertRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Two Mexican nationals were sentenced to federal prison for their roles as foot guides in a human smuggling operation that resulted in the death of a 26-year-old woman who was left behind in the New Mexico desert.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on August 7, 2024, United States Border Patrol agents in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, discovered 13 undocumented noncitizens hiding in the desert near New Mexico State Road 9 after they illegally entered the United States from Mexico. Agents later learned that another individual traveling with the group had been left behind and needed medical attention. When agents responded to the area, agents located 26-year-old Evelyn Esmeralda Villalta-Marquez deceased in the desert. The Office of the Medical Investigator determined Villalta-Marquez’s cause of death was hyperthermia due to environmental heat exposure.
During the investigation, agents determined Gustavo Joachin-Hernandez, 37, a Mexican national who had previously been deported, and Israel Gonzalez-Cruz, 36, a Mexican national illegally present in the United States, acted as foot guides for the group and were responsible for leading 12 undocumented noncitizens for approximately five and a half hours through desert terrain in temperatures reaching approximately 97 degrees. Joachin-Hernandez admitted that Villalta-Marquez struggled to keep up with the group due to the heat, that he assisted her to the pickup location, and that she was still alive but in bad shape when he left her behind to continue with the smuggling operation. Joachin-Hernandez further admitted he had worked as a foot guide for a human smuggling organization since November 2023 and expected to be paid $2,000 Mexican pesos for each illegal alien that he assisted in being successfully smuggled to a stash house.
Joachin-Hernandez and Gonzalez-Cruz pled guilty to conspiracy to transport an illegal alien and were sentenced to 46 months in prison. Upon their release from prison, they will be subject to deportation.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan G. McRae of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, made the announcement today.
HSI Las Cruces investigated this case with assistance from the United States Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Castellano prosecuted the case.
New Mexico Woman Pleads Guilty to $4M Medicaid FraudRead the Press Release
A New Mexico woman pleaded guilty today to working with a non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) company to submit millions of dollars in false and fraudulent claims to New Mexico Medicaid for ineligible and non-existent trips to medical appointments.
According to court documents, Dorothea Irving, 47, of Farmington, New Mexico, worked as a driver between 2020 and 2026 for a company that provided non-emergency medical transportation. The New Mexico Medicaid program covers the cost of transportation for non-emergency medical services, such as routine doctors’ appointments, for Medicaid recipients who lack access to transportation by personal vehicle or public transportation. Instead of driving Medicaid beneficiaries who lacked transportation to their medical appointments, Irving and the company engaged in a multi-year scheme to submit fraudulent claims for purported transportation provided to Irving and her children. Together with the company, its owner, and other employees and drivers, Irving submitted false trip records claiming that she or her children were the Medicaid beneficiaries without transportation, claiming trips that had not occurred, and claiming to have been an attendant for her children on their own trips. Irving and other drivers also signed trip forms falsely representing to have driven each other to appointments to disguise the fact that they were driving themselves. In many instances, the fraudulent trips involved Irving, another driver, or minor children purportedly traveling to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings across New Mexico at great distances.
The NEMT company used the false trip records to submit millions of dollars in fraudulent claims to New Mexico Medicaid, including false claims that each passenger in the vehicle had taken a separate trip. For the trips taken by Irving and her children as the supposed Medicaid recipient without transportation, the company submitted fraudulent claims of approximately $3,957,788 and received approximately $4,142,942 from Medicaid. Irving herself received approximately $980,901 from the company over four years of the scheme.
Irving pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. A sentencing date has not been set and she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division; Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Acting Special Agent in Charge Scott Brown of the IRS Criminal Investigation’s Phoenix Field Office (IRS-CI); and Director Jessica Randall of the New Mexico Medicaid Fraud Control Bureau made the announcement.
FBI, HHS-OIG, IRS-CI, and the New Mexico Medicaid Fraud Control Bureau are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Lauren Randell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Lewis for the District of New Mexico are prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
The Department of Justice’s Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion since 2007. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.Mescalero Man Charged with Assault and Child AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man has been charged in federal court with assault arising from an alleged February 2026 incident and prior assaults.
According to court documents, on February 25, 2026, Bradley Isaiah Davis, 36, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, allegedly assaulted the victim during an argument. Davis allegedly struck the victim multiple times in the face with a closed fist, and strangled the victim. The victim sought medical treatment.
Medical records showed the victim suffered a fractured nasal bone, a head contusion, facial swelling, bruising, and nosebleeds.
During a post-arrest interview with investigators, Davis allegedly admitted to striking the victim in the face and admitted to choking the victim.
Davis is charged with assault causing serious bodily injury, assault by strangling and/or suffocating and child abuse and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Davis faces up to 13 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dulce Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Dulce man was sentenced to 24 months in prison after admitting he repeatedly assaulted a woman, causing substantial injuries, while subject to a tribal court order prohibiting contact with the victim.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on July 23, 2025, Shelton Atole, 35, an enrolled member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, physically attacked the victim, hitting her repeatedly in the face and head. The victim attempted to flee and Atole chased her, but the victim was eventually able to get away and called a friend who picked her up.
At the time of the assault, Atole was under a tribal court order prohibiting him from contact the victim following a separate incident of assault in June 2025.
Atole pleaded guilty to assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to an intimate or dating partner.Upon his release from prison, Atole will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.
Santa Fe Woman Sentenced to More Than Nine Years in Prison for Embezzling from Her EmployerRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Santa Fe woman was sentenced to more than nine years in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution for embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from a Santa Fe electrical company.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, from approximately May 2017 through April 2020, Charity Felch, 48, embezzled at least $385,930 from her employer, Rodeo Electrical Services, by fraudulently paying herself and her husband, using company funds for personal expenses, and concealing the theft through fraudulent financial transactions. Felch also engaged in bank fraud by tendering fraudulent checks and committed aggravated identity theft and access device fraud by using another person's identifying information and financial accounts without authorization.
Felch exploited a position of trust granted by the owner of Rodeo Electrical Services, who had provided her employment and housing. The scheme nearly drove the company into financial ruin, delayed the victim's retirement plans, and caused significant financial, emotional, and physical hardship.
After pleading guilty to five counts of bank fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft, and one count of access device fraud, Felch continued to engage in deceptive conduct while on pretrial release. Court records show she repeatedly provided false information about her employment to Pretrial Services, the U.S. Probation Office, and the Court. A federal judge found her testimony regarding her employment history not credible and concluded that she had provided false information to supervising officers over an extended period.
Felch was sentenced to 111 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $385,930.19 in restitution to the victim. In imposing the 111-month sentence, which was at the top of the advisory guideline range, the Court cited the seriousness of Felch's conduct and the need to deter others from committing similar fraud offenses.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Santa Fe Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Office Fred J. Federici prosecuted the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office brought a separate civil forfeiture action on April 15, 2022, seeking to forfeit assets seized in November 2021. Litigation in the civil proceedings is ongoing.