District of New Mexico
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Plea in Case Involving Sexual Contact with MinorsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Newcomb man pleaded guilty to federal charges of sexual contact with two minors.
According to court documents, Roderick Bitsilly, 61, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, admitted to engaging in sexual contact with Jane Doe 1, a child under 12, between February and August 2014. Additionally, Bitsilly pleaded guilty to similar charges involving Jane Doe 2, also under 12, between September 2019 and September 2020.
Bitsilly will remain in third-party custody at a halfway house pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Bitsilly faces up 75 months in prison. Upon his release from prison, Bitsilly will be subject to no less than five years up to life of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Bitsilly).pdf# # #
U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Verdict in Nigerian Romance SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Following a four-day trial and less than three hours of deliberation, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict against two Nigerian nationals who participated in an international romance scheme.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the scheme, which began in January 2016, involved the creation of a fictitious persona named "Glenn Brown" on the dating website eHarmony.com. Olutayo Sunday Ogunlaja, 39, and Abel Adeyi Daramola, 37, both Nigerian nationals, worked with another individual who used this fake profile to initiate a romantic relationship with a victim in Albuquerque, New Mexico and subsequently request money from them. Throughout the course of the fraud, the victim was led to believe that their financial assistance was necessary for “Glenn Brown” to complete a purported construction project in Malaysia and return safely to the United States.
The victim sent approximately $560,000 to various accounts in the United States, Canada, and Malaysia between January 2016 and April 2017. On September 27, 2016, the victim wired approximately $28,000 to a Woodforest Bank account in the name of Daramola Cars, as instructed by the fraudulent "Glenn Brown" persona. Daramola subsequently wired $18,000 to a seafood importer in Denmark and issued a check for $14,000.
Daramola denied any knowledge of the romance scheme, however the FBI's investigation uncovered extensive evidence, including text and WhatsApp correspondence on Daramola's phone, revealing his role as a provider of bank accounts for various fraud schemes including romance fraud schemes.
Ogunlaja's involvement included using his Bank of America account for receiving fraudulent funds. Specifically, on March 9 and March 15, 2016, “Glenn Brown” instructed the victim to deposit $20,000 cash into Ogunlaja's account. Following these deposits, Ogunlaja made multiple cash withdrawals and transfers to Daramola’s account.
Following the verdict, the Court ordered that Ogunlaja and Daramola remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Ogunlaja and Daramola each face up to 20 years in prison.
There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Peña is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney, FBI Announce Federal Charges Against Arizona Man for Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Phoenix man has been charged with two counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child under 12 years old.
The indictment alleges that between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2019, Jeremy Blueeyes, 25, a member of the Navajo Nation, unlawfully and knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual acts with a child who had not yet attained the age of 12 years.
Blueeyes will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Blueeyes faces a minimum of 30 years and up to life in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
View the Indictment (Blueeyes).pdfAn indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing of Mexican National for Attempted Aircraft Destruction and Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mexican national was sentenced to 117 months in prison and ordered to pay a $600 special assessment for attempting to destroy an unmanned aerial system and federal drug trafficking offenses in New Mexico.
According to court documents, on July 3, 2023, officers from the Albuquerque Police Department tracked Rogelio Rodriguez-Salas, 29, a Mexican national who had previously been deported and was illegally present in the United States, by using a drone while he was in possession of a stolen vehicle. In an attempt to evade surveillance, Rodriguez-Salas fired a handgun at the drone to damage and disable it. Following this incident, he was arrested but subsequently released into the community.
Weeks later, on July 21, 2023, deputies from the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Department encountered Rodriguez-Salas again. He was found in possession of a revolver while engaged in drug trafficking activities and driving another stolen vehicle. At that time, he had more than four grams of fentanyl intended for distribution when stopped by deputies. His illegal presence in the U.S. prohibited him from possessing both firearms and ammunition.
On July 15, 2024, Rodriguez-Salas pleaded guilty to multiple charges: attempting to damage, destroy, disable, and wreck an aircraft; being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition; re-entering the United States as a removed alien; possessing with intent to distribute four grams or more of fentanyl; and possessing a firearm to further a drug trafficking scheme.
Upon his release from prison, Rodriguez-Salas will be subject to three years of supervised release and subject to deportation proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General conducted this investigation with the Albuquerque Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations. This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI Investigates Suspected Child Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – The FBI is investigating allegations of child sexual abuse involving a minor against a man in Vanderwagen, New Mexico.
Nolin Leupp, 26, appeared before a federal judge and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled, on charges of receiving child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, on December 8, 2024, a witness reported a suspected sexual assault involving Leupp and a minor victim. The witness further disclosed concerning communications between Leupp and the victim, including Snapchat messages of a sexual nature and plans to meet late at night.
During a subsequent interview on December 19, 2024, Leupp admitted to a romantic relationship with the minor. A search of Leupp’s phone revealed four videos of suspected child sexual abuse material, downloaded from Discord and Snapchat.
If convicted of the current charges, Leupp faces a mandatory minimum of 5 and up to 20 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case as part of 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.
View the Criminal Complaint (Leupp).pdfA criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI Announce Second Superseding Indictment, Bringing Additional Kidnapping and Assault Charges Against Serial Murderer, Kidnapper, and Sexual Abuser Labar TsethlikaiRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Federal prosecutors have filed six additional charges against Labar Tsethlikai for kidnapping and assault with a dangerous weapon. The additional charges are part of a larger series of violent crimes committed by Tsethlikai against Native American men across New Mexico between 2022 and 2024. The added charges correspond to 5 additional victims.
Labar Tsethlikai, 51, an enrolled Member of Zuni Pueblo, now faces a 17-count second superseding indictment charging him with five additional counts of kidnapping and one count of assault with a dangerous weapon as follows:
- Count 5: Kidnapping of John Doe 3 on or about May 19, 2023, in Indian Country, McKinley County, New Mexico
- Count 11: Kidnapping of John Doe 6 on or about August 24, 2023, in Indian Country, McKinley County, New Mexico
- Count 12: Assault with a dangerous weapon (baseball bat) against John Doe 6 on or about August 24, 2023, in Indian Country, McKinley County, New Mexico
- Count 13: Kidnapping of John Doe 7 on or about September 7, 2023, in Indian Country, McKinley County, New Mexico
- Count 14: Kidnapping of John Doe 8 on or about September 15, 2023, in Indian Country, McKinley County, New Mexico
- Count 16: Kidnapping of John Doe 10 on or about April 5, 2024, in Bernalillo County, New Mexico
In total, the second superseding indictment identifies 11 victims of Tsethlikai. The investigation is ongoing.
Tsethlikai was initially charged with second degree murder on April 25, 2024. On July 31, 2024, a federal grand jury charged Tsethlikai in an 11-count superseding indictment with two counts of kidnapping resulting in death, one count of first-degree murder, one count of first-degree felony murder, four counts of kidnapping, one count assault with intent to commit murder, one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury, and one count of aggravated sexual abuse:
- Count 1: On October 22, 2022, Tsethlikai allegedly kidnapped and murdered John Doe 1.
- Count 2: On January 18, 2024, Tsethlikai allegedly murdered John Doe 2 willfully, deliberately, maliciously, and with premeditation.
- Count 3: On January 18, 2024, Tsethlikai allegedly killed John Doe 2 during the commission of a kidnapping and sexual abuse.
- Count 4: On January 18, 2024, Tsethlikai allegedly kidnapped John Doe 2 and death resulted.
- Count 6: On June 15, 2023, Tsethlikai allegedly kidnapped John Doe 4.
- Count 7: On June 15, 2023, Tsethlikai allegedly assaulted John Doe 4 with the specific intent to commit murder.
- Count 8: On June 15, 2023, Tsethlikai allegedly assaulted John Doe 4, and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
- Count 9: On July 13, 2023, Tsethlikai kidnapped John Doe 5.
- Count 10: On July 13, 2023, Tsethlikai allegedly sexually abused John Doe 5 by force and threats, and the sexual act consisted of contact between the penis of Tsethlikai and the mouth of John Doe 5.
- Count 15: On February 16, 2024, Tsethlikai allegedly kidnapped John Doe 9 using interstate facilities and instrumentalities.
- Count 17: On April 11, 2024, Tsethlikai allegedly kidnapped John Doe 11 using interstate facilities and instrumentalities.
If convicted, Tsethlikai faces a mandatory life sentence or death for the kidnapping resulting in death and first-degree murder charges, up to twenty years imprisonment on the assault with intent to murder charge, up to ten years imprisonment on the assault resulting in serious bodily injury charge, and any number of years up to life for the kidnapping and aggravated sexual abuse charges.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez, and Raul Bujanda, 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, led by Special Agent Mark Stephenson, is investigating this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department’s Homicide Unit, Sex Crimes Unit, and Air Support Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew J. McGinley and Mark A. Probasco are prosecuting the case, with victim support provided by the FBI’s Victim Services Division, the United States Attorney’s Office Victim Witness Unit, and Utah Navajo Health Systems, Inc., Victim Services.
The FBI continues to investigate Tsethlikai’s involvement in crimes against other victims. If you have reason to believe you or someone you know may be a victim, or have information about Tsethlikai, please call the FBI at (505) 889-1300 or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov.
Labar Tsethlikai is approximately 5’7” and weighs 180 pounds. He is heavyset, has short brown hair, brown eyes, and wears glasses. He sometimes wears a gold bracelet. He is from Zuni, but travels extensively around New Mexico, including Gallup, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe. He is believed to work in the Native American jewelry industry and may be a Zuni jewely artist.
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. This prosecution upholds the Department’s mission to the unwavering pursuit of justice on behalf of Indigenous victims and their families.
View the Second Superseding Indictment (Tsethlikai).pdf# # #
U.S. Attorney, FBI Announce Federal Charges Against Arizona Man for Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Whiteriver man has been charged with two counts of sexual abuse.
The indictment alleges that between August 1, 2021, and August 31, 2021, Fernando Yatsatie, Jr., 47, a member of the Zuni Pueblo, unlawfully engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual acts using threats and intimidation.
Yatsatie will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Yatsatie faces any term of years up to life in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI 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.
View the Indictment (Yatsatie).pdfAn indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea from Albuquerque Man for Production of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man pleaded guilty to federal charges of production of child sexual abuse materials, admitting to creating illicit content and using social media to lure minors for sexual exploitation.
According to court documents, Kevin Vallo, 40, used the social media messaging app Telegram to communicate with a 13-year-old victim. Vallo created multiple profiles on Telegram under different names and personas, misrepresenting his age as 16 when he was actually 39 years old.
Vallo admitted to engaging in sexually explicit chats with the victim and repeatedly inviting her to his residence. On or about February 19, 2024, Vallo persuaded the victim and two other minors to come to his home in Albuquerque for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity.
Vallo further admitted to recording four separate videos of himself engaging in sexual activity with the victim using his cellular phone, which he then sent to the victim. These videos constitute child pornography under federal law.
Vallo will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Vallo faces 15 to 25 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Vallo will be subject to a minimum of 5 years and up to life of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States 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.
If you have reason to believe you or your child may be a victim of Vallo, or if you have information about this ongoing investigation, please call the FBI at (505) 889-1300 or submit their tips online at tips.fbi.gov.
View the Plea Agreement (Vallo).pdf# # #
U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing of Zuni Man for Violent AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was sentenced to 21 months in federal court for a violent assault that left a fellow tribal member with severe injuries.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on January 25, 2023, Zuni Police Department (ZPD) officers responded to a report of an assault near a road within the Zuni Pueblo. They found the victim, John Doe, lying in the road, bleeding heavily from the head and facial area. Witnesses reported that the assailants had fled the scene in a pick-up truck.
John Doe suffered severe injuries that required hospitalization for several days.
The investigation revealed that the incident began when Christopher Hannaweeke Sr., 49, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, hit the victim's dog with his vehicle. When John Doe confronted Hannaweeke, an altercation ensued. Hannaweeke admitted to striking and kicking John Doe, stating he was "overcome with emotion" due to an ongoing neighborhood feud.
During a subsequent interview, Hannaweeke acknowledged to FBI agents on February 3, 2023, that his conduct "went too far."
Upon his release from prison, Hannaweeke will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI 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 United States Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Pleas for Theft and Bank FraudRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Two Chimayo women pleaded guilty in federal court to a theft in Indian Country and a bank fraud scheme targeting multiple financial institutions across Sandoval, Santa Fe, and Rio Arriba Counties.
According to court documents, on May 22, 2022, shortly after 4:00 AM, Billie Jo Gussler and Angelica Dominguez entered the Valero gas station located on Tesuque Pueblo and stole property valued at over $1,000, including lottery tickets and cigarettes. Neither Gussler nor Dominguez is a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe.
Furthermore, between January 6, 2020, and August 19, 2022, Gussler and Dominguez engaged in an extensive bank fraud scheme across Sandoval, Santa Fe, and Rio Arriba Counties. The pair targeted multiple federally insured financial institutions, including Del Norte Credit Union, Bank of America, U.S. Bank, Century Bank, Enterprise Bank and Trust, Washington Federal Bank, and SoFi Bank.
The fraudulent activities involved altering and forging checks to withdraw funds unlawfully from account holders and financial institutions.
Gussler and Dominguez will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Gussler and Dominguez each face up to 30 years imprisonment. Upon their release from prison, Gussler and Dominguez will be subject to up to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the theft case with assistance from the Tesuque Tribal Police and Quay County Sheriff’s Office. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the fraud case with the assistance of the Santa Fe Police Department, Espanola Police Department, and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Meg Tomlinson and Maria Stiteler are prosecuting the cases.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Charge Nageezi Man with Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Nageezi man has been charged with sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact in Indian Country.
Patrick Wayne Platero, 46, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge and will remain in the third-party custody of La Pasada halfway house pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, between on or about January 1, 2024, and on or about April 30, 2024, Platero allegedly sexually abused and engaged in abusive sexual contact with Jane Doe.
If convicted, Platero faces up to life in prison followed by not less than five years and up to life on supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI 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 Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.
View the Indictment (Platero).pdfAn indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea and 15-Year Sentence for Gallup Duo in 2021 Armed Robbery CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Gallup woman has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for her role in the armed robbery of a local business in 2021, while her brother has pleaded guilty to robbery and federal firearms charges, joining two other co-conspirators involved in the crime.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on the afternoon of December 4, 2021, Gallup Police responded to a robbery at C & R Insurance on US Highway 491. A woman and two men entered the business, demanding money while brandishing firearms. The female suspect fired a shot into the ceiling, causing panic among employees and customers. Witnesses reported hearing a loud pop and seeing the suspects dressed in dark clothing.
Surveillance footage showed Amber Yazzie, 29, and her brother Gregory Yazzie, 28, both armed. Amber Yazzie fired a gun into the ceiling and demanded cash while Gregory Yazzie stood guard by the door as an accomplice collected over $4,000 from the registers. Following the incident, the suspects fled to Albuquerque, where they used stolen funds for shopping. Law enforcement obtained receipts and video evidence of their purchases.
The robbery forced C & R Insurance to close for a week, significantly impacting its operations. The business serves around 60,000 customers across New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado.
The Yazzie’s co-defendants Randy Joe and Chadyne Tohe pleaded guilty and are pending sentencing.
At sentencing, Gregory Yazzie faces up to life in prison followed by up to five years of supervised release.
Upon her release from prison, Amber Yazzie will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety, the Navajo Nation Police Department, the Gallup Police Department and the McKinley County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney's Office and Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office Collaborate to Prosecute Convicted Felon for Gun Violence Incident in AlbuquerqueRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Los Lunas man has been sentenced to 57 months in federal prison for illegally possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon following a domestic incident.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on July 21, 2023, Gabriel Roger Benavidez, 34, was involved in an altercation with his girlfriend in an apartment complex parking lot in Albuquerque. During the incident, Benavidez fired multiple rounds from a 9mm pistol at the engine block of his girlfriend’s car.
Albuquerque Police Department officers responded to the scene after a ShotSpotter notification. Benavidez fled on foot, discarding his outer clothing and a loaded 9mm pistol in a bush. Officers recovered the firearm, which was loaded with 11 rounds, along with an additional 18 rounds of 9mm ammunition in Benavidez’s discarded clothing.
Law enforcement deployed a drone to locate Benavidez, who had entered a stranger’s apartment. Law enforcement also recovered another firearm belonging to Benavidez, a .45 caliber pistol, that had been discarded in a trash bin.
During the investigation, it was determined that Benavidez was a convicted felon at the time of the incident and was aware that he was not legally permitted to possess firearms or ammunition.
Upon his release from prison, Benavidez will be subject to two years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Haynes prosecuted the case as part of an agreement with the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
Through the agreement, Assistant District Attorneys are designated Special Assistant United States Attorneys (SAUSAs) in the United States Attorney’s Office. The SAUSA from the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office screens felony criminal complaints filed in Bernalillo County for federal criminal offenses, prioritizing federal charges against those who drive violence in the Albuquerque metropolitan area. Since 2020, the United States Attorney’s Office has reviewed almost 3,000 cases and has charged more than 300 criminal cases pursuant to this program.
The United States Attorney’s Office has similar agreements with the New Mexico Department of Justice and the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office and plans to expand the program throughout the state.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Announces Guilty Plea in Interstate Transportation Case Involving Illegal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man admitted guilt in federal court for transporting a woman to engage in illegal sexual activities, following a 911 call made by one of the victims.
According to court documents, on June 17, 2024, law enforcement responded to a 911 call from an adult female in Laguna, New Mexico, reporting she was being trafficked. Officers located the caller and two other individuals at a gas station in Laguna.
The investigation revealed that Hakeeme Kaleb Williams, 25, of Phoenix, had transported multiple women across state lines for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts, and used force and coercion to compel the women to engage in prostitution and turn over their earnings.
Williams will remain in the third-party custody pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Williams faces up to 10 years imprisonment. Upon his release from prison, Williams will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office and Laguna Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Trembley.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office and HSI Charge Childcare Owner in Alleged Minor Sexual Abuse CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – The owner of Cardiel Childcare Services in Las Cruces is charged with attempted enticement of a minor after an investigation revealed alleged systematic sexual abuse of a child under his care.
Juan Jose Cardiel, Sr., 79, appeared before a federal judge and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which is scheduled for December 11, 2025.
According to court documents, Cardiel allegedly showed the minor victim naked photos of herself as a baby and toddler, displayed a video of people engaging in sexual acts to the victim, forced the victim to perform sexual acts on him, and inappropriately touched the victim. This is alleged to have occurred on numerous occasions.
The complaint also states that Cardiel was previously arrested by Las Cruces Police Department on May 1, 2024, on state charges of Criminal Sexual Contact with a Minor.
If convicted of the current charge, Cardiel faces not less than 10 years in prison and up to life in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Jason T. Stevens, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) El Paso, made the announcement today.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case with assistance from the Las Cruces Police Department and the U.S. Marshals. Assistant United States Attorneys Matilda McCarthy Villalobos and Jackson Dering are prosecuting the case as part of 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.
HSI is seeking other potential victims in this case. Anyone with information is asked to contact HSI at 1-877-4-HSI-TIP (877-447-4847) or online at www.hsi.gov.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Announces Sentencing of Online Predator for Sexual AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Santo Domingo man has been sentenced to 72 months in federal prison and 15 years of supervised release for sexually assaulting a minor victim after grooming her through social media and gaining unauthorized access to her home on the Navajo Nation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, Jordian Pacheco, 33, an enrolled member of the Santa Domingo Pueblo, was arrested on January 10, 2021, after the victim's mother discovered him hiding in her daughter's closet. Navajo Police Department officers responded to the call and initially detained Pacheco, who provided false identification.
The investigation revealed that Pacheco had developed a relationship with the 14-year-old victim through TikTok and email over the course of a year. Pacheco, who was 29 years old at the time, did not disclose his true age to the victim.
On January 9, 2021, Pacheco drove to the victim's residence on the Navajo Nation while her mother was away. He then engaged in sexual intercourse and other sexual acts with the minor.
During the investigation, it was uncovered that Pacheco had a history of contacting minors online using usernames such as "youngduke12," "Little Felon," and "Scott Little Felon." He tried to ingratiate himself with minors, requesting photographs and attempting to meet them at local high school sporting events while lying about his age.
Upon his release from prison, Pacheco will be subject to 15 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon 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.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Announces Sentencing in Shiprock Homicide CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Pine Hill man has been sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for a fatal stabbing of John Doe in 2023 during a gathering in Shiprock, New Mexico.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on July 31, 2023, Kirtie Cohoe, 48, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, fatally stabbed John Doe during a gathering at a relative's home in Shiprock, New Mexico. During an altercation in the relative’s kitchen, Cohoe lost self-control and attacked Doe with a knife.
After the incident, Cohoe fled the scene on foot, taking the weapon with him. The Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations (NDCI) and the FBI found John Doe deceased at the home with multiple stab wounds. Cohoe was later apprehended in nearby woods, where he was found with blood on his clothing. The knife was recovered near Cohoe’s wallet, and DNA analysis later linked Cohoe to the knife's handle. Cohoe has admitted to causing John Doe's death.
Upon his release from prison, Cohoe will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
This case was investigated by the Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau Investigation with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorneys Meg Tomlinson and Mark Probasco are prosecuting the case.
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Shiprock Woman Charged with Assault as U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Investigate Stabbing IncidentRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock woman has been charged with assault with a dangerous weapon following an incident that left another woman hospitalized with multiple stab wounds.
Angelia Garcia, 34, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the criminal complaint, on November 21, 2024, the Navajo Nation Police Department responded to a call at the Northern Navajo Medical Center regarding a patient with multiple stab wounds. The victim was found with stab wounds to her face, neck, arm, and abdomen.
The victim identified Garcia as the attacker, and Garcia was later located and detained. Garcia initially denied involvement, but eventually admitted to stabbing the victim, claiming self-defense due to the victim “talking shit.”
If convicted, Garcia faces a maximum of 10 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI 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 Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal Complaint (Garcia).pdfA criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI Announce Charges in Domestic-Violence CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Brimhall, New Mexico man has been charged with two felony crimes—Assault of a dating partner by strangling and Assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
Victor Badonie, 32, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge and was released with conditions to include home detention and GPS monitoring. Trial in this case has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, on March 6, 2024, Badonie allegedly assaulted Jane Doe by strangling, suffocating, and attempting to strangle and suffocate her. Badonie also struck Doe, which resulted in serious bodily injury.
If convicted, Badonie faces a maximum of 10 years in prison per felony charge, followed by three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Pueblo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Zach Jones is prosecuting the case.
An is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Second Conviction in Illegal Firearms Conversion Device CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque woman pleaded guilty in federal court to engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and possession of a machine gun conversion device after she and her son negotiated and sold machine gun conversion devices to an undercover ATF agent in 2023.
According to court documents, the investigation began in December 2022 when the ATF identified Joe Jasso's Instagram account advertising machine gun conversion devices. Joe Jasso subsequently deleted the account in January 2023, however ATF agents were able to quickly identify a new account with similar identifiers, including Joe's distinctive skeleton hand tattoo. Undercover operations led to two controlled purchases from Joe Jasso and his mother, Rachel Jasso, 43, in February 2023.
On February 7, 2023, undercover agents conducted two controlled buys with the Jassos. During the first exchange, Joe Jasso demonstrated how to install a Glock Switch on a firearm. Rachael Jasso was present at both exchanges and offered assistance if needed.
On February 16, 2023, ATF agents executed a search warrant at the Jasso residence. During the search, agents recovered ten firearms, five machine gun conversion devices, a large amount of ammunition, numerous magazines, and a 3D printer used to manufacture these devices.
Neither Joe nor Rachael Jasso held the necessary federal firearms license to legally possess or sell these devices. Additionally, between July 2020 and February 2023, thirteen firearms purchased by Rachael Jasso were recovered in criminal investigations.
Rachael Jasso will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Rachael Jasso faces up to ten years imprisonment and fines up to $250,000. Upon her release from prison, Rachael Jasso will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
On June 11, 2024, Joe Jasso pleaded guilty to engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and possession of a machine gun conversion device. Joe Jasso remains in custody pending sentencing, which is not currently scheduled. At sentencing, he faces 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge 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 Samuel A. Hurtado 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 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 fall victim to the devastating impact of these illegal automatic weapons.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Charge Man for Gas Station Robbery in ShiprockRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A man is charged with robbing the 7 2 11 Gas Station in Shiprock, New Mexico, after allegedly assaulting a cashier and stealing $276 from the register.
Ryan Douglas Yazzie, 27, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the criminal complaint, on the morning of October 31, 2024, Yazzie allegedly entered the 7 2 11 Gas Station in Shiprock, New Mexico, located within the Navajo Nation reservation. Yazzie is accused of pushing a cashier to the ground and stealing the cash register drawer containing $276.00 before fleeing on foot.
If convicted on the current charges, Yazzie faces up to 20 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, 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 the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing of Previously Convicted Felon for Firearm Offense Following Conviction by JuryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after being convicted by a federal jury of being a felon in possession of a firearm. This was his second federal conviction for such an offense.
According to court documents, on December 11, 2021, Jesus Coronado, 43, brandished a firearm at his former girlfriend and another man in a smoke shop parking lot. Following the incident, both parties fled the scene in their vehicles and the victim called 911.
Screen capture of surveillance video showing Coronado confronting the victim. Coronado pointing a firearm at the victimLas Cruces Police Department (LCPD) officers obtained an arrest warrant for Coronado and located his vehicle at a Las Cruces residence. After several days of surveillance, officers observed a male matching Coronado's description in the driveway of the residence on December 13, 2021. When commanded to stop, Coronado fled.
Officers set up a perimeter around the residence and called for occupants to exit. While maintaining the perimeter, an officer observed a firearm on the roof of the residence. Coronado was later found hiding between a tree and a small cinder block wall across the street.
Photo of firearm that was located on the roofThe firearm recovered from the roof was sent for DNA testing, which returned a match for Coronado's DNA As a previously convicted felon, Coronado was prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.
Coronado was federally charged on February 8, 2022, and indicted on June 21, 2023, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Following a two-day trial, a jury found Coronado guilty on February 14, 2024.
Upon his release from prison, Coronado will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Las Cruces Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher McNair and Richard Williams prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea in Domestic Violence CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man pleaded guilty in federal court to assault of dating partner by strangling.
According to court documents, between May 5 and May 11, 2022, Kevin El Cavazone, 41, assaulted his ex-girlfriend by strangling her on the Mescalero Apache Reservation.
At sentencing, El Cavazone faces up to 10 years in federal prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant United States Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea in Domestic Violence CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man pleaded guilty in federal court to violently assaulting his girlfriend in a domestic violence incident.
According to court documents, on October 9, 2023, Frank Shorty Trujillo, 19, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, violently assaulted his girlfriend, Jane Doe, at their residence. The attack was triggered by Trujillo's anger over a delayed marijuana delivery.
The assault began in front of the couple's one-year-old son. Trujillo repeatedly punched Jane Doe and bit her left leg above the knee. Throughout the attack, Jane Doe feared for her life.
Trujillo will remain detained pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Trujillo faces up to five years imprisonment. Upon his release from prison, Trujillo will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and HSI Collaborate to Charge Albuquerque Student Doctor in Child Exploitation CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A student doctor from Albuquerque was charged by indictment with production and possession of child pornography following his arrest as part of a multi-agency investigation into child exploitation.
Kevin Weiss, 28, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, between approximately June 2020 to February 9, 2024, Weiss allegedly used a minor under 18 years of age to produce child pornography of the minor. The indictment further alleges that from December 30, 2023, to March 25, 2024, Weiss knowingly possessed child pornography involving prepubescent minors.
If convicted, Weiss faces a minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison followed by a minimum of five years and up to a lifetime term of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Jason T. Stevens, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) El Paso, made the announcement today.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Jaymie L. Roybal and Meg Tomlinson are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought 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.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Charge Former Emergency Dispatcher with Making Terroristic ThreatsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A former emergency dispatcher for the Mesilla Valley Regional Dispatch Authority (MVRDA), faces charges for making multiple terroristic threats against county facilities and employees via Facebook posts.
Jason Rivera, 53, of Las Cruces, appeared before a federal judge and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which has been set for Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
According to court records, Rivera's posts on April 11 and April 25, 2024, included alarming claims of explosives at MVRDA and direct threats to specific employees. One post stated there was a bomb at the MVRDA, prompting a lockdown and bomb sweep by the Dona Ana County Sheriff’s Office. Rivera also registered a website titled "killdonaanacounty.org" and tagged county officials in his threatening messages.
The investigation revealed Rivera used a public Facebook account to make these threats, with an IP address linked to his residence. After being taken into custody on April 25, Rivera acknowledged his account and the threatening posts during an interview with law enforcement.
Rivera worked at MVRDA for eight years until September 2020, during which he exhibited troubling behavior, including harassment of former colleagues and erratic incidents leading to disciplinary actions. Following his resignation, Rivera intensified his threats towards former coworkers and their families.
If convicted of the current charges, Rivera faces up to 10 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Dona Ana County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Ry Ellison 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.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Verdict in Robbery CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Following a three-day trial and less than two hours of deliberation, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict against a previously convicted felon from Albuquerque on three counts of robbery for a series of incidents at Ross clothing stores in Albuquerque.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Jason Pete Roper, 45, robbed three separate Ross locations between August 14 and September 8, 2022. In each incident, Roper approached the checkout counters with small items before brandishing a silver and black handgun and demanding money from multiple registers. The total amount stolen across the three robberies was approximately $1,800.
At the time of these offenses, Roper was on federal probation for a previous armed bank robbery conviction.
Following the verdict, the Court ordered that Roper remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Roper faces up to 20 years in prison.
There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office and Albuquerque Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jon Stanford and Samuel Hurtado are prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea in Zuni Pueblo Armed Standoff CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man pleaded guilty to federal charges stemming from an armed standoff with law enforcement on tribal lands.
According to court documents, on July 7, 2024, Eric Bowannie, 26, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, assaulted two federal officers by firing multiple rounds of ammunition at them while they were performing their official duties within the boundaries of the Zuni Pueblo. In his plea agreement, Bowannie admitted to intending to cause bodily harm to the officers.
Bowannie will remain detained pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Bowannie faces up to 10 years imprisonment. Upon his release from prison, Bowannie will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, 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 United States Attorneys Ry Ellison and Kirk Williams are prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures Guilty Plea from Second Defendant in Carjacking and Assault CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – The second defendant pleaded guilty in federal court for her role in a violent carjacking incident that took place on the Navajo Nation in May 2022, following the earlier guilty plea of her accomplice.
According to court documents, on May 9, 2022, Lindsey Yazzie and Brandon Barber attacked a woman driving her Jeep on the Navajo Nation. Yazzie threw a large rock at the vehicle's windshield, forcing the victim to stop. Yazzie and Barber then violently removed the victim from the vehicle, as Yazzie repeatedlyattempted to strike the victim in the head with a rock.
After forcibly taking the victim’s Jeep, Yazzie and Barber fled the scene, nearly striking the victim with the stolen vehicle as they drove away. They later led Navajo Nation police on a high-speed chase before abandoning the vehicle.
At sentencing, Yazzie faces up to fifteen years in prison. Upon her release from prison, Yazzie will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI 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 Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Robert James Booth II is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Yazzie).pdf# # #
U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures 10-Year Sentence for Assault and Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for a shooting incident that occurred in Shiprock in 2023.
Tyrell Willie, 38, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon, assault resulting in serious bodily injury, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on May 28, 2023, Willie contacted Jane Doe via Facebook Messenger and requested to visit her at her home. Willie arrived at Jane Doe’s residence at approximately 2:00 a.m. After a brief conversation, Willie became aggressive and attempted to forcibly remove Jane Doe from her vehicle until her son, John Doe, intervened to protect his mother.
Following the altercation, Willie left the scene but later returned. When John Doe exited his home, Willie, who was lying in wait by circling the neighborhood, turned off the headlights to his vehicle, drove up to John Doe, and discharged two rounds from the driver’s seat, with one shot striking John Doe in the stomach. Navajo Nation Police officers, who were already in the area responding to reports of erratic driving, quickly pursued and apprehended Willie.
Upon his release from prison, Willie will be subject to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
FBI Farmington Agency investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. McGinley prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Charge Man for Stabbing Incident in ShiprockRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A man is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for allegedly stabbing a man outside a Shiprock grocery store.
Josiah Bodie, 22, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the criminal complaint, on November 12, 2024, Navajo Nation Police Department officers responded to reports of a stabbing at a grocery store in Shiprock, New Mexico, located within the Navajo Nation. When officers arrived, they found a male victim with an apparent stab wound. Officers located Bodie nearby in possession of a knife with brass knuckles on the handle.
The complaint alleges that Bodie approached the victim outside the store and initiated a physical altercation, during which he stabbed the victim with a knife.
If convicted on the current charges, Bodie faces 10 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, 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 the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal Complaint (Bodie).pdfA criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea in Child Sexual Abuse CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A San Felipe man pleaded guilty in federal court to sexually abusing an 11-year-old girl on tribal lands.
According to court documents, Vernon Chavez, 62, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of San Felipe, admitted that between August 1 and August 15, 2022, he intentionally touched an 11-year-old girl through her clothing with the intent to gratify his sexual desire. The abuse occurred within the exterior boundaries of the San Felipe Pueblo.
In his plea agreement, Chavez acknowledged that he knew the victim was approximately 11 years old at the time of the offense.
Chavez was detained pending sending, which has not been set. At sentencing, Chavez faces 10-15 years in federal prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Chavez).pdf# # #
U.S. Attorney's Office and Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office Collaborate to Secure Sentencing in Albuquerque Drug and Gun CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mexican national was sentenced to 11 years in prison for federal drug and firearms offenses, following his arrest by New Mexico State Police agents in December 2022.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on December 6, 2022, a New Mexico State Police Agent patrolling in Albuquerque identified a stolen pickup truck parked at the Sun apartment complex. The vehicle had been reported stolen by the Los Lunas Police Department on November 16, 2022.
Agents followed the truck, deployed a tire deflation device, and arrested the driver, Mario Figueroa-Camarillo, 40, when he stopped.
During the arrest, officers seized a loaded 9mm magazine, two cell phones, and $1,786 in cash from Figueroa-Camarillo’s person. Figueroa-Camarillo was wearing a GPS ankle monitor as a condition of pretrial release in a case pending at that time in the Second Judicial District Court. A search of the truck revealed approximately 66 grams of methamphetamine, 18 fentanyl pills, a digital scale, a loaded Taurus 9mm pistol, and a GPS charging device.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Figueroa-Camarillo will be subject to deportation proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman made the announcement today.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and New Mexico State Police investigated this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Haynes prosecuted the case as part of an agreement with the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
Through the agreement, Assistant District Attorneys are designated Special Assistant United States Attorneys (SAUSAs) in the United States Attorney’s Office. The SAUSA from the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office screens felony criminal complaints filed in Bernalillo County for federal criminal offenses, prioritizing federal charges against those who drive violence in the Albuquerque metropolitan area. Since 2020, the United States Attorney’s Office has reviewed almost 3,000 cases and has charged more than 300 criminal cases pursuant to this program.
The United States Attorney’s Office has similar agreements with the New Mexico Department of Justice and the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office and plans to expand the program throughout the state.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing for Domestic Violence CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – After receiving credit for 13 months previously served in Tribal custody, a Laguna man was sentenced to serve an additional 27 months in prison for two violent assaults against his intimate partner, a member of the Acoma Pueblo in 2019.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, in the first incident on May 30, 2019, Bret Anthony Vallo, 32, a member of the Laguna Pueblo, admitted to approaching the victim from behind during an argument, wrapping his arm around her neck, and strangling her until she lost consciousness.
In a separate incident between July 1 and July 15, 2019, Vallo acknowledged that he escalated another verbal dispute by punching the victim in the face and striking her multiple times with a metal futon leg.
Upon his release from prison, Vallo will be subject to 3 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case with assistance from the Pueblo of Acoma Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert James Booth II is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing for Assault Case Against Jemez Pueblo Police OfficerRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Jemez Pueblo man was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for a violent confrontation with a police officer that escalated from a call for help to an assault on law enforcement.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on May 29, 2023, a police officer with the Jemez Pueblo Police Department received a report from his sister about an individual in a nearby arroyo who was grunting and screaming for help. Upon investigation, the officer encountered Dylon Scott Sandia, 32, an enrolled member of the Jemez Pueblo, speaking with his sister. When Sandia took an aggressive posture towards the officer’s sister, he intervened and instructed Sandia to go inside. Instead, Sandia became increasingly hostile, yelling slurs at the officer and attempting to headbutt him before physically pushing him.
After being pushed, the officer attempted to detain Sandia. However, Sandia violently resisted, pulling the officer to the ground where he struck him in the stomach and chest while trying to access items from the officer’s duty belt, including his firearm.
In response to the escalating violence, the officer was forced to use pepper spray and a baton to subdue Sandia. He ultimately managed to break free from Sandia’s grip and handcuff him.
Upon his release from prison, Sandia will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Jemez Pueblo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Charge Shiprock Man with Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was charged by indictment with sexual abuse.
Jasper Lee Gray, 62, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to court records, between December 1 and December 20, 2023, Gray engaged in a sexual act with Jane Doe without her consent.
If convicted, Gray faces any term of years up to life in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI 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 Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.
View the Indictment (Gray).pdfAn indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing of Las Cruces Man for Federal Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man was sentenced to 80 months in prison for illegally possessing firearms and ammunition while under felony indictment, including an unregistered short-barreled rifle.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on November 12, 2020, Delbert Tyler Trevino, 33, was indicted in the State of Texas on felony charges of theft of property, fraud, and possession of a controlled substance. On January 31, 2022, Trevino pleaded guilty to those felony charges. Rather than entering a judgment at that time, the court placed him on deferred adjudication probation for a period of five years.
Under Texas law, deferred adjudication allows a defendant to accept responsibility for a crime without an immediate conviction. If the defendant successfully completes the terms of probation, the case is dismissed without a conviction on their record.
Despite being prohibited from possessing firearms while on probation, evidence showed Trevino later obtained firearms that had previously been seized by police. Trevino is also alleged to have purchased ammunition in New Mexico on July 22, 2022.
On September 2, 2022, deputies from the Dona Ana County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant related to a homicide investigation at a residence associated with Trevino in Mesilla Park, New Mexico. During the search, authorities recovered an unregistered short-barrel rifle from the bedroom Trevino was staying in.
Trevino was subsequently convicted by a federal jury on April 24, 2024, of federal firearms and ammunition offenses including possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle.
Upon his release from prison, Trevino will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge 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 Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office and the Las Cruces Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Ry Ellison are prosecuting the case.
The homicide investigation remains pending. If you have any information relating to this matter or other crimes committed by Trevino, please contact the Dona Ana County Sheriff’s Office at 575-525-1911.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures Sentencing in Domestic Violence CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 30 months in prison for assaulting his intimate partner by strangling her.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on November 8, 2023, Ronnie Pernell Evans, 21, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, assaulted his intimate partner by shoving her and grabbing her by her throat until they tripped and fell to the ground.
Upon his release from prison, Evans will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joni Autrey Stahl is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Charge Arizona Man with Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man is charged by criminal complaint with sexually abusing a minor child at a fair.
Webster Hot, 64, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, on October 5-6, 2024, Hot allegedly sexually abused an 8-year-old girl at the Northern Navajo Nation Fair in Shiprock, New Mexico. The abuse is alleged to have occurred inside Hot's camper truck.
If convicted, Hot faces 30 years to life in prison in prison followed by a minimum of five years of supervised release up to life.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI 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 Brittany DuChaussee is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal Complaint (Hot).pdfA criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Announces Guilty Plea in Child Sexual Abuse CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Nevada man pleaded guilty in federal court to sexual abuse involving a child under 12 years old.
According to court documents, between May 16, 2009, and May 15, 2012, Cedric Martinez, 31, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, knowingly engaged in sexual contact with a child under 12 years old at a residence in Upper Fruitland, New Mexico, within the Navajo Nation reservation.
Martinez was taken into custody pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Martinez faces any term between 18 and 22 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Martinez will be subject to no less than five years and up to life of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI 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 Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorneys Brittany DuChaussee and Meg Tomlinson are prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Martinez).pdf# # #
Colorado Man Sentenced for Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Colorado man was sentenced to two years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $242,210 after pleading guilty to money laundering and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
According to court documents, in 2015, James Matison, the former Restoration Projects Director at WildEarth Guardians, manipulated his co-defendant, Jeffrey Ham, the owner of Timberline Environmental LLC, a WildEarth Guardians contractor, into participating in the scheme by claiming his wife suffered a traumatic brain injury and they were facing financial hardship.
As part of the scheme, Matison created fraudulent invoices from Timberline to WildEarth Guardians, which he approved for payment, causing the non-profit to issue checks to Timberline. Matison deposited these checks into Timberline's account, then transferred the funds to his personal account.
The scheme continued until March 2019 and accumulated a total of $242,210 in fraudulent billings to WildEarth Guardians, with Matison pocketing virtually all the proceeds. When WildEarth Guardians began investigating, Matison asked Ham to create new invoices to cover up the crimes.
Ham pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and was sentenced on October 3, 2024, to serve a term of three years on probation.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and the Department of the Interior (DOI) Office of Inspector General, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Inspector General made the announcement today.
The Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General and the Department of the Interior Office of Inspector General investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy Peña is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office, DEA and HSI Announce Charges Against Fourteen Individuals in Major Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – This week, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the U.S. Marshal Service, the Las Cruces Police Department, and the Doña Ana Sheriff’s Office, conducted a coordinated operation to dismantle a significant drug trafficking network in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The operation targeted 15 defendants charged with conspiracy to distribute and/or possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, specifically methamphetamine and fentanyl, and six properties in Las Cruces and Anthony, New Mexico, along with one defendant charged with maintaining a drug-involved premises.
The defendants include Armando Conrad Gonzales, a.k.a. "Forty," 43, Leticia Maria Rodriguez, 41, Jessica Juel Henderson, a.k.a. "JJ," 45, Veronica Levario, 39, Richard Regan Beserra, 47, Daniel Roberto Herrera, a.k.a. "Fat Boy," 33, Ernesto Salas Flores, 63, Beatriz Adriana Gonzalez, a.k.a. Beatriz Adriana Herrera-Gonzalez, 46, Sylvia Ann Parra, 52, Amanda Lea Weinrich, 38, Phillip Andrew Estell, a.k.a. "Flip," 43, D'Anna Michelle Chavez, 47, Bruce Martin King, 68, Angel Flores, 45, and Kenneth Eric Yeager, 44, all of Las Cruces, New Mexico, and Antonio Valles, a.k.a. "Tony," 49, of Canutillo, TX,.
According to court documents, 14 of the defendants conspired to distribute controlled substances, specifically methamphetamine and fentanyl, and one of the defendants maintained a residence which he allowed to be used for drug distribution and use. The investigation revealed multiple instances of drug sales and transportation among the defendants, including:
- March 9, 2023: Beserra transported 182 fentanyl pills, 3.2 grams of methamphetamine, and a firearm in Anthony, New Mexico. He was stopped by law enforcement, who seized the items.
- April 4, 2024: Levario and Herrera were travelling to sell 40 fentanyl pills and was stopped by law enforcement while delivering them, resulting in the seizure of 202 fentanyl pills and 30.9 net grams of pure methamphetamine in Levario’s purse.
- April 16, 2024: Henderson sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant for $1,800.
- April 25, 2024: Gonzales delivered methamphetamine to Henderson, who sold the drugs to an undercover agent for $1,800.
- May 10, 2024: Henderson sold 105.62 net grams of fentanyl for $1,200 and a 20-gauge shotgun for $300 to an undercover agent.
On November 6, 2024, HSI and DEA, with support from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshal Service, the Las Cruces Police Department, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, New Mexico State Police, Texas Department of Public Safety and the New Mexico National Guard, executed search warrants at six properties associated with the drug trafficking conspiracy:
- 5301 Bell Road SW, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88012: central hub for A. Gonzales and drug distribution point.
- 3115 El Camino Real, Space 82, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88007: A. Gonzales’s mother’s house and drug distribution point.
- 5266 Ralls Road, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88012: primary location for B. Gonzalez and E. Flores’ drug transactions.
- 2826 Ox Cart Court, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88007: primary location for Herrera, used for storing stolen property and drug distribution.
- 1954 Lyon Place, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88001: residence of Kenneth Yeager and Beserra’s brother, used for drug distribution, purchase, and consumption, as well as location of a reported overdose death.
- 2775 Night Owl Lane, Anthony, New Mexico 88021: residence of Valles and drug distribution point.
During the investigative phase of the operation, agents seized 1,315.2 net grams of pure methamphetamine, 394.5 net grams of fentanyl pills (approximately 4,000 fentanyl pills), and three firearms. During the search and arrest operations this week, authorities seized additional substantial quantities of illegal substances, including 842 grams of fentanyl, 1,118 grams of methamphetamine, 285 grams of cocaine, 36 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, 400 grams of marijuana, and 96 grams of hydrocodone. The search and arrest operation also resulted in the seizure of 13 firearms and $2,200 in US currency. The operation resulted in 24 arrests, with 16 individuals facing federal charges, and 8 facing state charges.
“As federal prosecutors, we are known for leading investigations into international drug cartels and major drug trafficking organizations. But in order for those organizations to make their money, local networks of drug traffickers must peddle their poison to the streets,” said U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez. “When those local networks trade in death and violence, through overdose and firearms, we will focus the substantial weight of the federal government on dismantling their operations.”
“If drug traffickers think they can come set up shop in Southern New Mexico, they are mistaken,” said Special Agent in Charge Towanda R. Thorne-James. “This operation is just one example of how the DEA will partner with other law enforcement to put them out of business and bring them to justice.”
“Any investigative effort that curbs the flow of fentanyl, methamphetamine and other lethal drugs into our communities is a victory and saves lives,” said Acting Special Agent on Charge Jason T. Stevens. “HSI is a key player in a unified effort to ensure public safety by capturing and prosecuting drug traffickers and anyone else who belongs to transnational criminal organizations.”
If convicted, Weinrich, Parra, Estell, and Yeager face up to 20 years in prison. Herrera and Chavez face a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 20 years in prison. A. Gonzalez, Rodriguez, Valles, Levario, Beserra, E. Flores, B. Gonzalez, King and A. Flores each face a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison. Henderson faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez, Towanda R. Thorne-James, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration El Paso Division and Jason T. Stevens, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) El Paso, made the announcement today.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations jointly investigated this case with assistance from the U.S. Marshal Service, the Las Cruces Police Department, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, New Mexico State Police, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the New Mexico National Guard. Assistant United States Attorneys Kirk Williams, and Renee Camacho are prosecuting these cases.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The task force initiatives are also part of the New Mexico High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program (HIDTA), a federal grant program that supports law enforcement efforts to combat the drug threat in the state.
View the Indictment (Gonzales et al).pdf View the Criminal Complaint (Yeager).pdf View the Criminal Complaint (Flores).pdfAn 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.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures Sentencing in Domestic Violence CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 30 months in prison for assaulting his intimate partner by strangling her.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on November 8, 2023, Ronnie Pernell Evans, 21, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, assaulted his intimate partner by shoving her and grabbing her by her throat until they tripped and fell to the ground.
Upon his release from prison, Evans will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joni Autrey Stahl is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Announce Charges in Navajo Nation Aggravated Assault CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man faces federal charges after allegedly stabbing his ex-girlfriend and striking her with his vehicle on the Navajo Nation reservation.
Tyrell Lee Johnson, 29, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge and will remain in custody pending his detention hearing, which has been scheduled for November 7, 2024.
According to court records, on November 2, 2024, the FBI was notified by Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations of an assault that occurred on Highway 64 in Beclabito. The victim and a witness reported that Johnson, the victim’s ex-boyfriend, stabbed her with a knife and struck her with his vehicle. The victim was transported to Northern Navajo Medical Center with multiple injuries, including a stab wound to the abdomen.
Johnson was later apprehended by Navajo Police Department officers after a brief pursuit. A folding knife was reportedly recovered from Johnson’s person.
If convicted of the current charges, Johnson faces up to 10 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI 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 Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal Complaint (Johnson).pdfA criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea from Gallup Man for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Gallup man pleaded guilty in federal court to assault with a dangerous weapon following a shooting incident on the Navajo Nation reservation sparked by barking dogs.
Harley Davidson Joe, 38, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, will remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Joe faces up to 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Joe will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Joe).pdf# # #
U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing for 2021 Murder in Church RockRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Smith Lake man was sentenced to 11 years and 4 months in federal prison for the 2021 murder of a man in Church Rock, New Mexico.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on May 17, 2021, Josiah Alan Smith, 30, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, arrived at a residence in Church Rock, New Mexico, armed with a rifle. Smith made threats against John Doe before briefly leaving the premises. Smith then returned with a revolver and fired two shots through a bedroom window, striking Doe in the back. The bullet pierced Doe's heart and both lungs, resulting in his death despite lifesaving attempts by a witness.
Following the shooting, Smith fled the scene and attempted to conceal evidence by disposing of the murder weapon. Smith was arrested approximately three months after the incident.
Upon his release from prison, Smith will be subject to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, 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 Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations and the McKinley County Sheriff's Office. Assistant United States Attorney Blake Nichols is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Murder Plea in 2020 CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man pleaded guilty in federal court to second degree murder for his role in the brutal killing of a man on the Navajo Nation in 2020.
According to court documents, between February 6, 2020, and February 14, 2020, Tyran Begay, 40, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, participated in the killing of John Doe within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation reservation by binding and beating the victim, assisting in his strangulation, and leaving his body exposed to frigid weather in a remote area near Smith Lake, NM.
Begay will remain detained pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Begay faces a range of incarceration of no less than 19 years up to 30 years imprisonment. Upon his release from prison, Begay will be subject to up to five years of supervised release.
Begay’s co-defendants, Camille Damon and Ronald Belone, remain in custody pending trial, which has yet been set.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, 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 the assistance of the McKinley County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco and Meg P. Tomlinson are prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Begay).pdf# # #
U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea in Navajo Nation Shooting CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Pueblo Pintado man pleaded guilty in federal court to two charges stemming from a fatal shooting incident that occurred on the Navajo Nation in 2022.
According to the plea agreement, on May 16, 2022, Rodgerick Tsosie, 31, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, aimed a firearm at an individual seated in the front passenger seat of a moving vehicle during a family altercation. Tsosie discharged the weapon, but the bullet missed its intended target and instead struck another person in the backseat, resulting in that individual's death.
Tsosie will remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Tsosie faces up to 10 years in prison with a mandatory minimum of no less than 7 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Tsosie will be subject to up to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI’s Albuquerque Violent Crime Task Force investigated this case with assistance from the Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office and the Navajo Nation Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Mark A. Probasco and Robert J. Booth II are prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Tsosie).pdf# # #
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Sentencing of Farmington Woman for Oil and Gas FraudRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington woman was sentenced in federal court after pleading guilty to charges of failing to pay royalties owed to the Jicarilla Apache Nation, the Navajo Nation, and the federal government, as well as for submitting fraudulent oil and gas extraction reports and committing wire fraud.
According to court documents, Teresa McCown, 55, the owner of M&M Production & Operation, Inc. and Shoreline Oil & Gas Company, was responsible for accounting, reporting mineral production, and paying royalties to mineral owners for extracted gas and minerals. To that end, McCown was required to submit monthly Oil Gas Operations Reports (OGOR) and royalty payments to the Department of the Interior's Office of Natural Resources Revenue (ONRR) based on the amount and value of oil and gas produced from the leases.
On December 6, 2019, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) received a complaint letter from the Jicarilla Apache Nation alleging M&M and Shoreline’s ongoing failures to report oil and gas extraction volumes and failure to report revenue. ONRR began its investigation into McCown and her companies’ failure to pay royalties and determined that she filed over 400 incorrect reports on leases located within the Jicarilla Apache Nation, the Navajo Nation, and other federal lands. Audits of her company also revealed that she entirely failed to file approximately 1,000 reports for at least 32 leases or agreements. McCown also falsely reported gas extraction amounts and failed to pay due royalties and interest.
Despite receiving multiple notices of noncompliance and civil penalties, McCown took no corrective action. Her false and missing filings, together with accruing penalties, resulted in a loss of over $3.55 million for the tribes and the federal government.
The investigation revealed that McCown committed wire fraud by knowingly submitting inaccurate information through online reporting systems and violating numerous reporting regulations. McCown agreed to ONRR’'s Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), which warned against entering inaccurate or false information into the reporting system. The online system separately warns users that a violation of the AUP may result in criminal prosecution. By continuing to violate policy using the online reporting portal, McCown carried on a scheme to defraud the Navajo Nation, the Jicarilla Nation, and the United States of full amounts due for her companies’ operations.
McCown was sentenced to a time-served prison sentence, three years of supervised release, and is ordered to pay full restitution to the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the Navajo Nation for lost royalties. She was also ordered to pay a $20,000 fine in her personal capacity and is statutorily required to pay $900 in Court-required Special Penalty Assessments.
To meet her financial obligations, McCown was ordered to liquidate her personal property – including two pieces of real estate in Farmington and Rio Arriba Counties, two motor vehicles, and a recreational vehicle, insofar as required to satisfy these financial obligations. During her period of Supervised Release, McCown may not work as a record-keeper or reporter in any industry subject to state or federal reporting or regulatory requirements, including oil and gas companies.
As part of her plea agreement, McCown also agreed not to contest proceedings initiated by the Department of the Interior, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Bureau of Land Management to cancel her oil and gas leases.
Finally, McCown also agreed to formally apologize to the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the Navajo Nation. She apologized at sentencing and appended her apology to the record, saying in part: “I have had time to reflect on my actions and now realize that there are much larger consequences… It has not only harmed the two nations but also the people of those nations. For this I am truly sorry… I apologize to this court, The Jicarilla Apache Nation as well as the BIA-Farmington Office and the Navajo Nation.”
This case was prosecuted pursuant to the Federal Oil and Gas Royalty Management Act (FOGRMA) and is the first ever federal prosecution under 30 U.S.C. Section 1720 for violations of 30 U.S.C. Section 1719(d)(1). Section 1719(d)(1) of the FOGRMA imposes civil penalties for knowingly or willfully preparing, maintaining, or submitting false, inaccurate, or misleading reports, notices, affidavits, records, data, or other written information. Section 1720 provides criminal penalties for persons who violate Section 1719.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and the Department of the Interior (DOI) Office of Inspector General made the announcement today.
The Department of the Interior, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Energy Investigations Unit investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Flores prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office, FBI and USMS Target Drug Trafficking Operation Linked to Federal Correctional FacilityRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – This week, the FBI Violent Gangs Task Force and U.S. Marshals Service conducted a coordinated operation to dismantle a significant drug trafficking network linked to the Cibola County Correctional Center in Milan, NM, with the support of the New Mexico State Police. The operation was part of an ongoing investigation into an intergang conspiracy involving both incarcerated and non-incarcerated gang members.
On Wednesday, October 30, 2024, search warrants were executed at 13 identified premises across New Mexico, believed to contain evidence related to multiple federal offenses. The following individuals are among those targeted in this operation:
- Nora Baca - 417 Monte Alto Place NE, Albuquerque, NM
- Estrella Gonzalez - 1812 Del Norte Drive SW, Albuquerque, NM
- Angelo Garcia - 4903 Rincon Road NW, Albuquerque, NM
- Monalisa Vargas - 1333 Columbia Dr. SE, Apt #95, Albuquerque, NM
- Theresa Atencio - 9748 Summer Shower Place NW, Albuquerque, NM
- Johnny Valiterra (aka “Chopper”) - 2331 Menaul Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM
- Richard Porras (aka “Deuce”) - 2331 Menaul Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM
- Sonia Trinidad - 401 Dunes Court, Apt D, Albuquerque, NM
- Desiree Benavidez - 3 Jose P Sanchez Road, Los Lunas, NM
- Ana Romero - 200 E. Jefferson Avenue, Gallup, NM
- Adolfo Montano - 18 Arroyoito Loop, Seboyeta, NM
- Kimberly Perry and Kelly Perry - 8 Red Mesa Housing, Crownpoint, NM
- Monique Gallegos and David Hicks - 7 Hughes Blvd, Grants, NM
In addition to the operation, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico announced indictments against several individuals connected to the drug trafficking at Cibola County Correctional Center. Two current inmates, Lupe Vargas, 40, and Edward Vallez, 44, along with two co-conspirators, Monalisa Vargas, 38 (Lupe's wife), and Michael Garcia, 46, have been charged with conspiracy and attempting to provide or obtain prohibited objects in a correctional facility. Additionally, a superseding indictment has been filed against Nora Baca, charging her with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Nora Baca, Monalisa Vargas and David Hicks were arrested during the operation. If convicted, Baca faces between 15 years and life in prison and Vargas faces up to 20 years in prison. Michael Garcia remains a fugitive at this time.
As a result of the operation, 15 firearms, ammunition, fentanyl, methamphetamine, suboxone strips, $6,000 in cash, and 23 cell phones were seized, and six individuals were arrested and charged by federal or state authorities:
- Angelo Garcia was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted of the current charges, Garcia faces no less than 10 years and up to 45 years in prison.
- Theresa Atencio was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with providing contraband to a prisoner. If convicted of the current charges, Atencio faces up to one year in jail.
At Benavidez’s residence in Los Lunas, three armed felons were located and arrested:
- Raymond Lucero was arrested on federal criminal complaint and charged with being a felon in possession or a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the current charges, Lucero faces up to 15 years in prison.
- Jacob Gonzales, aka “Trigger,” was arrested on federal criminal complaint and charged with being a felon in possession or a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the current charges, Gonzales faces up to 15 years in prison.
- Nadine Gonzales was arrested on state criminal complaint and charged with being a felon in possession or a firearm and ammunition.
Jacob Gonzales recently was released from prison after completing a 22-year on a state sentence for felony convictions related to a murder.
In addition, Emmanleen Chavez was arrested at the residence in Grants on a state warrant for attempted murder.
The operation and ongoing investigation are intended to dismantle the criminal enterprises operating within and outside the correctional facility, which have been implicated in the distribution of controlled substances and other illegal activities.
“The Department of Justice protects the safety and dignity of all, including those in federal custody,” said U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez. “Those who seek to profit from the addiction and vulnerability of detainees not only violate the law but perpetuate a cycle of harm that extends beyond the walls of the jail. That is why we are taking a comprehensive approach—leveraging technology to interdict contraband before it enters the facility, enforcing federal criminal laws against detainees and those who support them on the outside, relying on the cooperation of people motivated to do the right thing, and treating opioid use disorder with medical care for federal detainees while in custody. The Department of Justice will not tolerate the exploitation of addiction for profit in our correctional facilities.”
"This week’s operation demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to continue to dismantle criminal enterprises operating in New Mexico," said Philip Russell, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Division. "The FBI, along with our federal, state, local and tribal partners are determined to bring drug traffickers to justice for crimes committed and damage done to our communities."
“The U.S. Marshals Service is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for prisoners that are under our care,” said U.S. Marshal for the District of New Mexico David O. Barnett, Jr. “The execution of this joint operation is a testament to the unwavering dedication by our Federal, State, and Local partners to combat crime and improve the lives of our New Mexico communities.”
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez, Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, and David Barnett, U.S. Marshal for the District of New Mexico, made the announcement today.
The FBI Albuquerque Division Violent Gang Task Force (VGTF) and United States Marshals Service jointly investigated this case with assistance from the CoreCivic Intelligence Unit and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Paul Mysliwiec and David Hirsch are prosecuting these cases.
The VGTF is an FBI led task force comprising of agents and officers from the New Mexico State Police, Rio Rancho Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, and the Albuquerque Police Department.
View the Search Warrant.pdf View the Indictment (Vargas, et al).pdf View the Criminal Complaint (Lucero and Gonzales).pdf View the Criminal Complaint (Atencio).pdf View the Criminal Complaint (Garcia).pdf View the Superseding Indictment (Baca)_0.pdfAn 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.
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