District of New Mexico
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Guilty Plea for Felony Assault within Navajo NationRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty in federal court to assault charges arising from a 2020 assault and theft of a motor vehicle within the Navajo Nation.
According to publicly available court documents, on May 17, 2020, the victim, John Doe, was parked in his car at the Gulf Gas Station in Shiprock when Daryl Levi, 41, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, attacked Doe and took his vehicle. Doe suffered bodily injury including bruises and contusions.
In his plea agreement, Levi admitted that he participated in the assault with the intent to take John Doe’s motor vehicle. He will remain in custody pending sentencing which has not yet been set.
At sentencing, Levi faces a mandatory term of incarceration of no less than thirty-seven months up to a maximum of no more than forty-six months in prison. Upon his release from prison, Levi 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 Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
- Roswell Escrow Manager to Be Sentenced for Fraud Scheme
U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea from Recidivist Offender in Santa Fe Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A repeat offender from Espanola pleaded guilty in federal court to federal drug trafficking charges.
According to publicly available court documents, on February 23, 2022, while on probation, Jeremy Isaac Lopez, 29, committed an armed robbery in Santa Fe County, New Mexico. He was subsequently charged and placed on house arrest with GPS monitoring as part of his pretrial release conditions.
On March 30, 2023, a bench warrant was issued for Lopez after he intentionally removed his GPS ankle monitor.
On April 19, 2023, Lopez was located and apprehended at the Cities of Gold Casino in Santa Fe, New Mexico, by the Pueblo of Pojoaque Tribal Police Department. During the arrest, officers discovered Lopez was in possession of multiple controlled substances, including:
- Heroin
- More than 5 grams of methamphetamine
- Over 40 grams of a mixture containing fentanyl.
According to public records, Lopez was subsequently convicted by the State of New Mexico for the armed robbery.
Lopez will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Lopez faces up no less than five years and up to 40 years in prison followed no less than four years and up to lifetime 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 Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Pueblo of Pojoaque Tribal Police Department, Chief Freddie Trujillo of the Pojoaque Tribal Police Department, and the Espanola Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert James Booth II is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Conviction Against Repeat Domestic Violence OffenderRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Bosque Farms man pleaded guilty in federal court to domestic assault by a habitual offender.
According to publicly available court documents, on August 9, 2022, Daniel Vincent Olguin, 37, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Isleta, assaulted his girlfriend, Jane Doe, by striking her in the back of the head with his hand. Olguin was previously convicted of assaulting his intimate partner in 2012 and 2016.
The Court ordered that Olguin remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Olguin faces up to 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Olguin will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Isleta Police Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Robert James Booth II is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
U.S. Attorney and FBI Charge Kirtland Man Following Violent AltercationRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Kirtland man was charged by criminal complaint with assault with a dangerous weapon and carrying a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime after allegedly attacking his parents with a handgun at their home on the Navajo Nation reservation.
Jerome Weaver, 21, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the criminal complaint, on July 9, 2024, Weaver allegedly assaulted his parents at their home on the Navajo Nation reservation near Shiprock. Weaver is accused of striking his father multiple times with a handgun, causing injuries. He also allegedly choked his mother and held her at gunpoint. Weaver’s father was transported to the Northern Navajo Medical Center where he was treated for injuries to his face.
If convicted of the current charges, Weaver faces from seven years 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 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 Attorney Brittany DuChaussee is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal ComplaintA 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 and FBI Announce Federal Charges Against Zuni Man After Armed Standoff Ends in Shooting at Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was charged by criminal complaint following an hours-long armed standoff with law enforcement, during which he fired multiple shots at FBI agents and tribal police officers responding to a domestic disturbance call on the Zuni Pueblo reservation.
Eric Bowannie, 26, an enrolled member of the Zuni Nation, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the criminal complaint, on July 6, 2024, a family disturbance in Zuni, New Mexico escalated into a standoff between law enforcement and Bowannie.
Bowannie allegedly barricaded himself inside a residence and fired upon Zuni Police Department officers outside the home. When more officers responded to the scene, Bowannie reportedly charged at them with an ax before retrieving a shotgun from a nearby bedroom and shooting at the officers.
Agents from the FBI responded to the scene and ordered Bowannie to exit the residence with his hands up, but he refused to comply.
Throughout the standoff, Bowannie moved between the front door and windows, firing multiple rounds. He was also observed at the back of the residence holding a rifle.
Eventually, Bowannie crawled out of the back of the residence and was spotted approximately a quarter mile away attempting to flee. He surrendered when given commands by local law enforcement.
A search of the residence recovered 57 .22 caliber casings and 5 spent shotgun shells both inside and outside the home.
In a subsequent interview, Bowannie admitted he was not supposed to possess firearms due to active felony warrants. He stated his initial plan was "suicide by cop" but changed his mind after speaking with his "baby mama." Bowannie also admitted to firing shots at FBI agents and considering shooting at a police officer before ultimately deciding to surrender.
If convicted of the current charges, Bowannie faces up to 27 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 with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Ry Ellison and Kirk Williams are prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal ComplaintA 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 Fatal DUI CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Sanostee man pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of involuntary manslaughter stemming from a fatal drunk-driving crash on the Navajo Nation that killed two people in August 2023.
According to publicly available court documents, on the morning of August 12, 2023, Leonardo Robbie Duncan, 33, was driving on Navajo Route 36 near Upper Fruitland, New Mexico, which is within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation. Duncan was drunk and driving in an unsafe manner when he crossed into on-coming traffic and crashed head-on into the front passenger side of Jane and John Doe’s vehicle.
Instead of checking on Jane and John Doe and rendering aid, Duncan fled on foot. Jane and John Doe died shortly after. When Duncan turned himself in six hours later, he was still intoxicated with a blood-alcohol content of 0.08.
Duncan will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Duncan faces up to eight years in prison and 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 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 Attorney Jena Ritchey is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
U.S. Attorney and FBI Charge Shiprock Man for Violent Assault Against an Intimate PartnerRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was charged by criminal complaint for a brutal domestic assault that left leaving the victim with multiple injuries including fractures, lacerations requiring stitches, and extensive bruising.
Deshaun Begay, 20, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for July 15, 2024.
According to the criminal complaint, on July 4, 2024, the Navajo Nation Police Department (NNPD) responded to a report of assault in Shiprock, NM. Upon arrival, officers found the victim with multiple severe injuries to her face and head. The victim was immediately transported to Northern Navajo Medical Center for treatment.
According to the complaint, the victim reported four separate additional incidents of domestic violence since May 2024 which went unreported due to the defendant’s representation that the victim would not be believed due the defendant’s purported association with local authorities. On July 4, 2024, Begay continued his angry and physically abusive behavior after drinking with the victim. He then struck the victim repeatedly with his fists before escalating the assault with various weapons including a dog leash, a 10-pound dumbbell, and a chain with a padlock.
The victim sustained multiple injuries including bruising, lacerations requiring stitches and staples and a nasal bone fracture.
If convicted of the current charges, Begay 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 Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department, the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal ComplaintA 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 Federal Funds Theft CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A former Indian Health Service (IHS) housing manager admitted stealing over $5,000 in federal funds by pocketing rent payments from traveling medical personnel and students.
According to publicly available court documents, Alonzo James Cayatineto, 39, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, served as housing manager for IHS in Crownpoint from approximately 2017 until his resignation in January 2023. In this role, Cayatineto was responsible for collecting rent payments from pharmacy students and other medical personnel on temporary assignments in Crownpoint.
In December 2022, Cayatineto emailed former pharmacy students, claiming they had outstanding housing debts. He instructed them to pay via his personal Venmo account to avoid collections. Between December 2022 and January 2023, Cayatineto collected $5,363 in rent payments from 12 individuals through 15 separate Venmo transactions. Cayatineto failed to remit these funds to IHS and was not authorized to collect payments in this manner.
The scheme was uncovered in January 2023 when students complained about not receiving receipts for their payments. An internal IHS investigation led to Cayatineto being placed on administrative leave on January 27, 2023. He resigned the same day.
Cayatineto was sentenced to two years of probation. He was also ordered to complete community service and pay back the $5,363 he stole.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
U.S. Attorney, Homeland Security Investigations Secure 17-Year Sentence in Child Exploitation CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An El Paso man was sentenced to more than 17 years in prison for his role in a cross-border conspiracy to distribute child pornography, following an investigation that uncovered thousands of explicit images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, including infants.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, between April 28, 2022, and April 24, 2023, Yamil Pillado, 23, and his cousin, Ryan Gallardo, engaged in a conspiracy to send and receive images and videos depicting child sexual abuse material via various online platforms. Pillado and Gallardo used WhatsApp and the MEGA file hosting service to exchange these illegal materials across state lines, with Pillado located in Texas and Gallardo in New Mexico.
During the investigation, law enforcement uncovered extensive conversations between Pillado and Gallardo discussing their mutual sexual interest in minors, including infants. The cousins exchanged numerous files containing sexually explicit images and videos of children.
Specifically, on April 29, 2022, Gallardo sent Pillado several videos showing an adult male sexually abusing a prepubescent female. On July 5, 2022, Pillado reciprocated by sending Gallardo an image of a minor female being sexually exploited.
A search of Pillado's phone uncovered more than 2,000 files containing child sexual abuse material.
Upon his release from prison, Pillado will be subject to 20 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
Gallardo pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and receive child pornography and remains in custody pending sentencing which is current scheduled for July 17, 2024. At sentencing Gallardo faces up to 20 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Jason T. Stevens, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations - El Paso, made the announcement today.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case with assistance from the El Paso Police Department and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marisa A. Ong and A’Kiesha Soliman are prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney Secures Guilty Plea in Oil and Gas Fraud CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington woman has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to submitting false and inaccurate oil and gas extraction reports, failing to pay due taxes and royalties to the Jicarilla Apache Nation, Navajo Nation, and federal government.
In her plea agreement, Teresa McCown, owner of M&M Production & Operation, Inc. (M&M) and Shoreline Oil & Gas Company (Shoreline), admitted that between 2017 and 2023, she repeatedly submitted false and inaccurate oil and gas extraction and production reports through online reporting systems, failed to submit mineral reports in some cases, and did not pay due taxes and royalties for oil and gas produced from Federal and Indian leases.
As a lease operator, McCown 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 and 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 required reporting for royalties was missing for long periods of time.
In her plea, McCown admitted to filing over 400 incorrect reports on Indian and Federal leases during the time period, that there are approximately 1,000 missing or unfiled OGOR reports for at least 32 leases or agreements, that she falsely reported gas extraction amounts, and failed to pay due royalties and interest. McCown was issued numerous Notices of Noncompliance (NONC), Failure to Correct Civil Penalties notices (FCCP), and Immediate Liability Civil Penalty (ILCP) notices for inaccurate reporting. ONRR held two pre-penalty teleconferences with McCown to discuss the civil penalties assessed in the NONCs, FCCPs, and ILCPs and any mitigating circumstances that may have prevented her companies from complying by the prescribed deadlines. Both of these teleconferences were audio recorded. In those teleconferences, McCown offered no relevant mitigating circumstances and instead gave various excuses, blaming medical ailments and fired employees for not properly reporting the well sites. Even after those teleconferences, McCown took no corrective action.
ONRR then sent the companies’ debts for unpaid royalties and penalties to the U.S. Treasury for collection. As of January 2024, neither M&M nor Shoreline had paid the debts to the U.S. Treasury and both debts continued to accrue.
In addition, McCown knowingly submitted false or inaccurate reports to ONRR over the internet, constituting wire fraud. When a user accesses ONRR's online systems, there is a validation process. The validation process all occurs over wires and an interaction with the data center where user logins are authenticated and authorized. Thus, when reports are submitted via an internet connection, users are confronted with a popup message that reads “I am authorized to report for this Reporter and certify that the electronic data transmitted is valid, accurate, complete and accept responsibility for such data…”, and must click “OK” to proceed.
During the reporting periods at issue in the indictment, McCown also accessed relevant websites as an official representative of her two companies. When she accessed those websites to submit information, she 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.
In her plea agreement, McCown admitted that she submitted inaccurate or false information through these systems on numerous occasions and that she intended to undertake a scheme to defraud the Navajo Nation, the Jicarilla Nation, and the United States of full amounts due for her companies’ operations – even after receiving notices, penalties, and participating in teleconferences with regulators.
As part of her plea agreement, McCown agreed to liquidate personal properties in Farmington and Rio Arriba County, an RV, and two motor vehicles and apply the proceeds the restitution she owes. McCown also agreed not to contest proceedings initiated by the Department of the Interior, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Land Management to cancel her oil and gas leases. She agreed to file financial disclosure forms with the United States Attorney’s Office until restitution is complete, and agreed to fully comply with ongoing curative audit and compliance procedures that will follow her plea.
The Court ordered that McCown remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, McCown faces up to 20 years in prison. Upon her release from prison, McCown will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
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 is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
U.S. Attorney, Albuquerque FBI Charge Habitual Offender with Domestic AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Utah man was charged by indictment with assaulting a victim with a knife while she was holding her daughter in Sheep Springs, New Mexico.
Kubert Yanito, 51, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge today for an arraignment and detention hearing, and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, on October 11, 2023, Yanito allegedly assaulted Jane Doe 1 with a knife while she was holding her daughter, Jane Doe 2. Yanito had previously been convicted of domestic violence, making him a habitual offender.
If convicted of the current charges, Yanito 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 Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nichola J. Marshall.
View the IndictmentAn 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 Secures 87 Month Prison Sentence for Violent Attack on Family HomeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Fruitland man was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for firing 18 rounds at a family home occupied by eight people, including five young children.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on April 28, 2022, Nathaniel Begay, 31, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, drove to a residence within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation after becoming angry while swimming at Morgan Lake. Armed with two semi-automatic handguns, Begay fired multiple rounds at the home, which contained eight family members including five young children.
After briefly leaving, Begay returned and fired a second volley of shots at family members as they attempted to take cover. No one was injured.
Begay was arrested later that night following a domestic dispute with his wife. A knife and 9mm bullet were found on his person at the time of arrest.
Upon his release from prison, Begay 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 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 Attorney Matthew J. McGinley is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney Secures 78-Month Sentence for Armed Felon in Immigrant Smuggling SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Tularosa man was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm while engaged in a scheme to transport undocumented immigrants.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on January 18, 2023, a U.S. Border Patrol Agent observed suspicious driving behavior from a vehicle traveling northbound on Highway 185 near Las Cruces, New Mexico. The vehicle was moving slower than the posted speed limit and drifting across lanes. After making evasive maneuvers, the vehicle eventually stopped near an abandoned residence outside Las Cruces.
The agent made contact with the driver, identified as Castulo Amaya, 39, and explained that he had stopped to conduct a welfare check. During the interaction, Amaya exhibited increasingly erratic behavior, yelling at the vehicle occupants to record the encounter and claiming harassment.
When questioned, Amaya claimed that the vehicle's occupants were his children and relatives. However, upon inspection, the agent determined that six individuals in the rear seat were aliens illegally present in the United States. All provided rehearsed responses claiming they were from Las Cruces. The front seat passenger was identified as Vanessa Rodriguez-Solorio, a U.S. citizen. Rodriguez-Solorio admitted to being hired by Amaya to transport people for money and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.
During a search incident to arrest, a loaded semi-automatic pistol was found concealed under Amaya's sweatshirt. As a previously convicted felon, Amaya knew that he was prohibited from owning firearms or ammunition.
Upon his release from prison, Amaya will be subject to 3 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Anthony “Scott” Good, Chief Patrol Agent of the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector, made the announcement today.
The U.S. Border Patrol investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Ry Ellison is prosecuting the case.
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Shiprock Man Pleads Guilty to Assault and Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty in federal court to assault and firearms charges after shooting a victim in the stomach during a late-night confrontation on the Navajo Nation reservation.
According to publicly available court documents, on May 29, 2023, Tyrell Willie, 38, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, drove to John Doe's residence within the Navajo Nation reservation. When John Doe exited his home, Willie turned off his headlights and fired two shots from the driver's seat, with one round striking Doe in the stomach. Willie then fled the scene.
Shortly after, Navajo Nation Police Officers conducted a high-risk stop on Willie's vehicle. Willie exited the truck holding a loaded shotgun but dropped it after being commanded to do so by officers. He was then taken into custody.
The victim suffered serious bodily injury requiring immediate life-saving surgery.
The Court ordered that Willie remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Willie faces between 7 and 12 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Willie 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 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 is prosecuting the case.
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Contractor Admits Guilt in $1.5 Million Bid-Rigging SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty in federal court to orchestrating a bid-rigging and money laundering scheme that defrauded a federally-funded Native American educational institution of approximately $1.5 million over a three-year period.
According to publicly available court documents, William Badoni, 61, admitted to conspiring with his co-defendant, Elroy Harry, an employee of Kinteel Residential Campus, Inc. (KRCI) from April 2018 to June 2019 to obtain non-public information about construction projects and the bidding process. This information was used to give Badoni’s company an unfair advantage in winning KRCI contracts. Badoni also arranged for the submission of falsified bids from other companies to circumvent KRCI's contracting policies.
The contracts and related change orders resulted in revenue of approximately $1.5 million paid to Badoni’s company by KRCI between 2016 and 2019.
In exchange for this assistance, Badoni paid Harry approximately $50,000. These payments were made in cash and by check, using funds derived largely from the fraudulently obtained contracts.
Additionally, Badoni admitted to conducting financial transactions to conceal the proceeds of the illegal scheme. This involved depositing portions of contract payments into bank accounts while taking other portions in cash to avoid creating records of payments made with fraudulently obtained funds.
Harry pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit federal program fraud and remains on conditions of release pending sentencing, which is currently scheduled for August 7, 2024.
The Court ordered that Badoni remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Badoni faces up to twenty years in prison and a fine up to $500,000 or twice the pecuniary gain resulting from the fraud. Upon his release from prison, Badoni will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez, Jamie DePaepe, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of the Interior (DOI) Office of Inspector General, and Andy Tsui, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation Denver Field Office, made the announcement today.
The U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Inspector General and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Taylor F. Hartstein and Mark Probasco are prosecuting the case.
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Arizona Man Charged with Transportation for the Purpose of ProstitutionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man was charged by criminal complaint with transportation for the purpose of prostitution after allegedly transporting a female across state lines for the purposes of engaging her in prostitution.
Hakeeme Kaleb Williams, 24, 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 June 17, 2024, Jane Doe 1 called 911 reporting she was being trafficked. Officers located her outside a car at a gas station in Laguna, NM, along with a man identified as Williams and another woman identified as Jane Doe 2.
Jane Doe 1 stated she had been working as a sex worker and Williams, who she met online, was her “pimp.” She said she provided all of her earnings to Williams, that he transported her across state lines for prostitution, and frequently assaulted her. Most recently, Williams was transporting her through New Mexico to Arizona, with stops made in New Mexico for the purposes of engaging in prostitution.
Online ads depicting the two women were found which appeared to promote sex work in Albuquerque.
If convicted of the current charges, Williams 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 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.
View the Criminal ComplaintA 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, Albuquerque FBI Charge Third Individual Connected to Violent Day-Long Crime Spree in GallupRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Little Water man was charged by criminal complaint following a violent crime spree on the Navajo Nation, which involved a series of shootings and murder.
Dewayne George, 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 April 24, 2024, a family traveling south on U.S. Highway 491 reported to law enforcement that they had been followed, rear-ended, and shot at by someone sitting in the front passenger seat of a white SUV.
Navajo Nation Police Department officers in the area were on the lookout for an SUV matching the description when they observed the vehicle driving southbound on U.S. Highway 491. Officers pursued the vehicle, which attempted to evade them before crashing. The officers took all three individuals in the vehicle into custody, later determined to be George, Rydell Happy, 30, and Brittania Navaho, 28.
Further investigation revealed that earlier that day, George, Happy, and Navaho had been involved in a separate shooting incident in Gallup, New Mexico. Additionally, they were implicated in the murder of an individual identified as John Doe.
Navaho was charged by indictment with straw purchase of the firearm used to murder John Doe and will remain in custody pending trial. If convicted, Navaho faces 25 years in prison.
Happy was charged by criminal complaint with second degree murder and will remain in custody pending trial. If convicted of the current charges, Happy faces life years in prison.
If convicted of the current charges, George faces up to 15 years in prison.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from Navajo Nation Police Department, the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations and the McKinley County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney R. Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as 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 Criminal ComplaintA 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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Felon Who Shot New Mexico State Police Officer Sentenced to 9 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Los Lunas man who shot a New Mexico State Police officer during a high-speed chase was sentenced to 9 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to publicly available court records, on February 11, 2022, New Mexico State Police (NMSP) Lt. Jeremy Vaughan was on duty at a gas station in Edgewood when he was alerted to a woman in distress. As Lt. Vaughan approached a vehicle containing the woman and Caleb Elledge, 26, of Los Lunas, Elledge fled, ramming the officer's vehicle.
A pursuit ensued, ending when Lt. Vaughan performed a pursuit intervention technique. Elledge then fired at Lt. Vaughan, striking him in the neck. Despite his injury, Lt. Vaughan returned fire before Elledge and his passenger fled on foot.
The following day, acting on a tip, NMSP agents located and arrested Elledge in McIntosh, New Mexico. During the arrest, Elledge apologized for shooting the officer. Agents recovered the firearm used in the shooting.
As a previously convicted felon, Elledge was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Lt. Vaughan medically retired due to the severity of his injuries from the shooting. Lt. Vaughan, his family, many of his NMSP colleagues, as well as numerous members of other law enforcement agencies, were present in the courtroom when Elledge was sentenced.
“Attacking a law enforcement officer is a guarantee that you will be caught and punished,” said U.S. Attorney Uballez. “We stand shoulder to shoulder with our state and local partners to keep this community safe. Their bravery and tireless dedication to our communal safety deserves our utmost respect. At today’s sentencing, Lt. Vaughn addressed Elledge directly, stating ‘you and I should never have been enemies . . . I have never been angry with you, there is nothing for me to forgive . . . I care about you as a fellow human being.’ Lt. Vaughn and his wife offered grace grounded in faith, challenging Elledge to change: ‘Today is day one.’ Lt. Vaughn’s bravery, faith, and message of hope is a credit to the New Mexico State Police and an inspiration for us all.”
“Today’s sentencing of the defendant is reassuring that violence, especially when directed towards law enforcement, is never acceptable in our society,” said Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI - Albuquerque Division, "The FBI will continue to work with our local, state and tribal partners to use all available resources to make sure that repeat armed offenders are held accountable and bring to justice anyone who assaults law enforcement officers."
"The sentencing of Caleb Elledge is a significant step towards justice for Lt. Jeremy Vaughan and the entire New Mexico State Police family. This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face daily in their commitment to protect and serve” said Troy Weisler, Chief of the New Mexico State Police. “We are grateful for the collaboration with our federal law enforcement partners that led to this outcome. We will continue to honor our duty to keep the citizens of New Mexico safe."
Upon his release from prison, Elledge will be subject to 3 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, Edgewood Police Department, and Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office assisted the New Mexico State Police with the investigation of this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Mysliwiec prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney Announces Abuse Conviction in Child Torture CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Ohkay Owingeh man pleaded guilty in federal court to an assimilated charge of child abuse resulting in great bodily harm arising from a series of brutal assaults and torture of a five-year old girl that occurred over a seven-week period in 2021.
According to publicly available court documents, between May 20, 2021, and July 10, 2021, Christopher Marquez, 34, an enrolled member of the Ohkay Owingeh tribe, repeatedly assaulted Jane Doe with his hands and miscellaneous household items in a manner that constituted torture and cruel punishment. As a result, Jane Doe suffered broken arms, broken ribs, internal bleeding, and bruising.
Marquez will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has been scheduled for October 9, 2024.
As a part of his agreement, Marquez will receive a definite term of 18 years in prison at sentencing. This is the statutory penalty of assimilated first-degree felonies. There is no parole in the Federal system.
Upon his release from prison, Marquez 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 United States Attorneys Mark A. Probasco and Matthew J. McGinley are prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
Zuni Man Pleads Guilty to AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges arising from 2023 assault which resulted in serious bodily injury.
According to publicly available court documents, on February 25, 2023, Christopher Hannaweeke, Sr., 49, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, assaulted John Doe. During the assault, Hannaweeke kicked John Doe in the head and body. As a result, John Doe suffered fractures to his face, extreme physical pain, and had to hospitalized for a period of time.
The Court ordered that Hannaweeke remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Hannaweeke faces 21 months in prison. Upon his release from prison, Hannaweeke 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 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.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
Two Chimayo Women Charged with Theft in Indian CountyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Two Chimayo women were charged by indictment with stealing property from a gas station on Tesuque Pueblo.
Angelica Dominguez, 39, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has been scheduled for August 12, 2024.
Billie Jo Gussler, 43, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has been scheduled for August 12, 2024.
According to the indictment, on May 22, 2022, Dominguez and Gussler stole property that had a value exceeding $1,000 from the Camel Rock Valero, a business owned and operated by Tesuque Pueblo.
If convicted of the current charges, Dominguez and Gussler faces up to five years in prison followed by three 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 Tesuque Tribal Police and Quay County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.
View the IndictmentAn 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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Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening New Mexico District AttorneyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Ohio man pleaded guilty in federal court to making interstate threats after he left a threatening voicemail message for the District Attorney in Dona Ana County, New Mexico.
According to publicly available court documents, on October 26, 2023, Donald Walter Fowler, 47, left a voicemail conveying a threat to the African American elected District Attorney for the 3rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office in New Mexico.
In the voicemail, Fowler said “There should be a noose in your future.”
The Court ordered that Fowler remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Fowler faces up to 3 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Fowler 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 the assistance of the FBI Cleveland Field Office and the 3rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niki Tapia-Brito is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
California Man Sentenced for Federal Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A California man was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison for attempting to transport over 2 kilograms of heroin by train from Bernalillo County to North Carolina.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on February 26, 2021, Mario A. Serna was apprehended as a passenger on a train, where he was found in possession of over 2 kilograms of heroin concealed in a false compartment of a bag. Serna admitted to knowingly possessing the heroin and intending to transport the heroin to North Carolina for distribution.
Upon his release from prison, Serna will be subject to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Towanda R. Thorne-James, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration El Paso Division, made the announcement today.
The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph M. Spindle is prosecuting the case.
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Albuquerque Man Sentenced to 25 years for Sexual Abuse in Indian CountyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for sexually abusing two girls in the Jicarilla Apache Nation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, between October 2012 and October 2013, Christian Quintana, 28, a member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, caused sexual contact with Jane Doe 1, a child who had not yet attained the age of 12.
Then, between October 2019 and October 2020, Quintana raped Jane Doe 2, who was 17 years old at the time. Quintana drove Jane Doe 2 to a secluded location, threatened her life and the lives of her family members, and forcibly had sex with her.
Both incidents occurred within the exterior boundaries of the Jicarilla Apache Nation.
Upon his release from prison, Quintana will be subject to a lifetime term 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 Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. McGinley is prosecuting the case.
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Albuquerque Man Charged with Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was charged by indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Arthur Steven Stewart, 23, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, on January 24, 2024, Stewart possessed a firearm and ammunition, knowing that he had been convicted of robbery. As a previously convicted felon, Stewart knew that he was prohibited from owning firearms or ammunition.
If convicted of the current charges, Stewart faces up to 15 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
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. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Haynes is prosecuting this 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.
View the Press ReleaseAn 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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Zuni Couple Charged with Assault with Intent to Commit MurderRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni couple was charged by indictment with assault with intent to commit murder, conspiracy, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury following a violent attack.
Shannon Concho, 45, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, appeared before a federal judge last week and will remain in custody pending trial, which is currently scheduled for September 12, 2024.
LouAnn Johnson, 28, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, previously appeared before a federal judge in May and will remain in custody pending trial, which is currently scheduled for September 12, 2024.
According to the indictment, on September 3, 2023, Concho and Johnson allegedly initiated a verbal altercation with John Doe, during which Johnson slapped John Doe multiple times. They then took John Doe's phones to prevent him from calling 911. The situation escalated when Concho began beating John Doe with a chair while stating his intent to murder him. Concho then instructed Johnson to kick John Doe in the head, and Johnson complied.
As the assault continued, a witness called the police. Subsequently, Johnson suggested that they flee the scene, which they did together. Concho and Johnson remained on the run until they were subsequently arrested in separate incidents.
If convicted of the current charges, Concho and Johnson face 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 with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Pecoraro.
View the IndictmentAn 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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Espanola Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit KidnappingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Espanola man was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison for his role in the brutal 2018 kidnapping, assault and murder of a woman in retaliation for allegedly stealing from another woman.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on January 14, 2018, Luis Mariscal-Lopez, 26, Jorge Dominguez, Crystal Ramos and another individual conspired to retaliate against Jane Doe for allegedly stealing and using Ramos' ATM card. The group lured the victim to Ramos' residence in Espanola.
Upon Jane Doe's arrival, the group brutally assaulted her over an extended period of time until she ultimately died from the vicious attack.
In an attempt to cover up their crime, the group wrapped Jane Doe's body in plastic, loaded it into a vehicle and transported it to a remote area near Velarde, N.M. There, they tried to dismember her remains before digging shallow pits to burn the body. The group spotted a helicopter, so they extinguished the fire, gathered the remains and returned to Ramos' home where they attempted to conceal the remains in a toolbox.
Later, Black and another individual took the toolbox with the remains to a location near Ojo Caliente, N.M. There they buried the toolbox in a shallow grave near the river.
Johnny Black pleaded guilty to federal firearms offenses and being an accessory after the fact and was sentenced to 171 months in prison.
Jorge Dominguez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit kidnapping and remains in custody pending sentencing which is currently scheduled for August 6, 2024.
Crystal Ramos died in a shootout with police in Denver, Colorado on June 14, 2018.
Upon his release from prison, Mariscal-Lopez 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.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Espanola Police Department, Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, Bureaus of Indian Affairs, and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicholas J. Marshall and Caitlin L. Dillon are prosecuting the case.
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Alamogordo Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Alamogordo man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to the unregistered weapon used to shoot and kill Alamogordo Police Officer Anthony Ferguson.
According to publicly available court documents, Jonah Apodaca, 31, provided a “sawed-off” shotgun to Dominic Cruz De La O which he later used to shoot and kill Alamogordo Police Officer Anthony Ferguson. Apodaca’s DNA was located on the shotgun shell recovered from the chamber of the shotgun and ammunition from the magazine tube.
The Court ordered that Apodaca remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Apodaca faces up to 15 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Apodaca will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
De La O was charged with possession of a firearm not registered with the National Firearm Registration and Transfer Record and possession of a firearm not identified by a serial number. De La O remains in custody pending trial.
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 Alamogordo Police Department, New Mexico State Police, and the Otero County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Ry Ellison are prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
Zuni Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse Against ChildrenRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for sexually abusing two young girls on the Pueblo of Zuni reservation in New Mexico.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, Rodney Waikaniwa, 51, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, sexually assaulted two minor victims, Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2. Jane Doe 1 was assaulted between September 21, 2000, and September 20, 2001. Jane Doe 2 was assaulted between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2015. He committed the crimes at shared residences with the victims within the Pueblo of Zuni. Jane Doe 1 was approximately 8 years old at the time of the abuse and Jane Doe 2 was approximately 6 years old at the time of the abuse.
Upon his release from prison, Waikaniwa will be subject to a 15-year term 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 Zuni Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.
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Shiprock Woman Charged with Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock woman was charged by indictment with straw purchase of a firearm which was later used in a murder following a violent day-long crime spree in Gallup, New Mexico.
Brittania Navaho, 28, 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 April 24, 2024, Navaho knowingly purchased a firearm on behalf of another person, knowing that person intended to use the firearm in furtherance of a felony.
If convicted of the current charges, Navaho faces up to 25 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 Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from Navajo Nation Police Department, the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations and the McKinley County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney R. Eliot Neal is prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as 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.
This case was prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.
View the IndictmentAn indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Shiprock Man Pleads Guilty to Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty in federal court to voluntary manslaughter for deadly assault on the Navajo Nation Reservation.
According to publicly available court documents, on June 26, 2022, Morrie Lee Begaye, 37, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, started a fight with John Doe at a residence in Shiprock. During the physical altercation, Begaye punched and kick John Doe in the head and body while they were on the ground. John Doe died because of the injuries Begaye inflicted with extreme disregard for human life.
The Court ordered that Begaye remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Begaye faces up to 15 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Begaye 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 U.S. Attorneys Caitlin L. Dillon and Brittany DuChaussee are prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement# # #
Datil Man Pleads Guilty to Retaliating Against a Federal EmployeeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Datil man pleaded guilty in federal court to retaliating against a federal employee by knowingly filing a false notice of lien against their property in the amount of $20 million.
In his plea agreement, Trapper Killsmany, formerly known as David Goldsmith, 56, admitted that he filed a false notice of lien with the Catron County Clerk's Office against the property of employees of the United States Social Security Administration. This action was in response to the employees' performance of their official duties. The lien was false because the listed debtors had no financial relationship with Killsmany and therefore owed no debt or other obligation to him.
Previously, Killsmany had filed fraudulent liens in Alaska, claiming that seven federal employees owed him $950 million in damages. Although he was not criminally charged for filing these fraudulent liens, the United States sued Killsmany and obtained a default judgment in federal court. This judgment prohibited him from filing liens without prior court approval.
The Court ordered that Killsmany remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Killsmany faces 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Killsmany 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 Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of Catron County Sheriff’s Office and the Social Security Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ry Ellison is prosecuting the case.
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Fruitland Woman Charged with Assaulting Another Woman with a KnifeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Fruitland was charged by indictment with two counts of assault.
Richelle R. Upshaw, 24, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, on February 21, 2023, Upshaw assaulted Jane Doe with a dangerous weapon, a knife, and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury to Doe’s head and face.
If convicted of the current charges, Upshaw faces up to 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 Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.
View the IndictmentAn 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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Alamogordo Man Sentenced for Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A member of the notorious Bandidos Motorcycle Club was sentenced to 21 months in prison for unlawful possession of firearms by a convicted felon.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to publicly available court records, on August 31, 2023, the FBI and local law enforcement partners executed dozens of search warrants around New Mexico targeting the Bandidos Motorcycle Club. During the search of Jonathan Bivins, 42, home, agents discovered thirteen firearms in a safe located in his bedroom.
As a previously convicted felon, Bivins knew that he was prohibited from owning firearms or ammunition.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Bivins will be required to serve 3 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 and New Mexico State Police led the investigation as part of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph M. Spindle and David B. Hirsch are prosecuting the case.
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Mescalero Woman Sentenced for Domestic ViolenceRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero woman was sentenced to 18 months in prison after pleading guilty in federal court to physically assaulting her partner and causing him substantial bodily injury.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to publicly available court documents, on September 24, 2023, Prestina Lisa Kazhe, 44, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, and John Doe got into an argument while watching a football game and drinking alcohol at their residence. During the argument, Kazhe struck John Doe multiple times on the head with a beer bottle, causing lacerations that required staples.
When John Doe tried to flee, Kazhe hit him 9-10 more times with a metal pot, leaving him bleeding profusely. As a result of the assault, John Doe required multiple staples to close his wounds.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Kazhe will be required to serve 3 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Joni Autrey Stahl is prosecuting the case.
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Mescalero Man Pleads Guilty to Domestic ViolenceRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man pleaded guilty in federal court to assaulting his intimate partner by strangling her.
In his plea agreement, Ronnie Pernell Evans admitted that on November 8, 2023, he assaulted his intimate partner, Jane Doe. Evans and Jane Doe were outside her home arguing when he shoved her and grabbed her by her throat. Evans squeezed Jane Doe’s throat and pushed her backwards toward his vehicle until they tripped and fell to the ground.
Evans got back up and continued dragging Jane Doe towards his car until a neighbor intervened. Evans fled the scene. Responding officers later stopped Evans on Highway U.S. 70 and arrested him.
The Court ordered that Evans remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Evans faces 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Evans 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 Joni Autrey Stahl is prosecuting the case.
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Isleta Village Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Isleta Village man was charged by criminal complaint with assault with a dangerous weapon under the major crimes act.
Vincent Jerome Martinez, 18, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Isleta, appeared before a federal judge today and pled guilty to a criminal information charging him with to assault with a dangerous weapon.
According to court documents, on December 14, 2023, Isleta Pueblo officers responded to a report of shots fired in a residential area. When they arrived on scene, Officers observed Martinez, dressed in black clothing, running behind a shed.
After taking Martinez into custody, a search incident to the arrest revealed three 12-gauge shotgun rounds in Martinez’s pocket and a modified shotgun with an obliterated serial number hidden under a railroad tie near the shed. The shotgun had one spent shell in the ejection port and one live round in the chamber. Officers also found two additional spent shotgun casings nearby.
According to the victim, Martinez came out of a residence shortly after the victim arrived to provide transportation and pointed a shotgun at the victim while threatening to kill him. Martinez then fired the shotgun in the air, causing the victim to drive away. As the victim drove away in his vehicle, Martinez fired several rounds at the victim before fleeing from the scene to hide behind a nearby shed where he was later arrested.
At sentencing, Martinez faces up to 10 years in prison. He will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case with assistance from the Isleta Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.
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Sanostee Man Sentenced for Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Sanostee man was sentenced to 144 months in prison after pleading guilty to the beating death of his friend during a drunken altercation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on June 8, 2022, John Doe went to the residence of Tyrone Atcitty Nez, 34, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, to assist with repairing a water heater. During the visit, John Doe and Nez were drinking together and rough housing.
At one point, John Doe stood up from a seated position, and Nez punched him in the face, knocking him unconscious and causing him to fall to the floor. While John Doe lay unconscious and unresponsive on the floor, Nez proceeded to kick him in the face and torso approximately 5 to 10 times while wearing work boots until he noticed Doe was bleeding profusely from his nose and mouth.
Worried Doe would choke, Nez turned him onto his side and exited the residence to ask neighbors to call 911. The Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations responded, and Nez admitted to punching and kicking Doe.
Doe died at Nez’s residence from the head injuries inflicted. The medical examiner listed the cause of death as blunt head trauma, with contusions, fractures, internal bleeding, and brain swelling.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Nez will be required to serve 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.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Brittany DuChaussee and R. Eliot Neal are prosecuting the case.
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Mexican National Sentenced for Transportation Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mexican national was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role as a foot guide in a deadly alien smuggling conspiracy where he threatened witnesses to cover up his involvement after one migrant died from heat exposure in the New Mexico desert.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on July 18, 2023, Texas Department of Public Safety officers pulled over a vehicle driven by Jorge Luis Estrada-Velasquez with four undocumented aliens. The aliens informed agents that other members of their group were still in the desert a few miles away and one was very ill.
Border Patrol agents and emergency medical technicians located Rafael Radillo-Bernal, 40, and three others in the desert near Strauss Road in Doña Ana County and began rendering aid to the sick individual. Tragically, the victim succumbed to the heat and passed away.
Border Patrol took the surviving seven aliens, including Radillo-Bernal, and Estrada-Velasquez, into custody. Estrada-Velasquez was charged with Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens and the seven aliens, including Radillo-Bernal, were designated as material witnesses.
Initially, none of the witnesses admitted to being the foot guide, and one claimed the guide had returned to Mexico. After their initial appearances, the witnesses were released to a halfway house in Las Cruces.
Subsequent interviews with the witnesses revealed consistent accounts of crossing late at night, walking for 8-9 hours with limited water, and the victim showing signs of illness early on due to diabetes. Radillo-Bernal initially claimed to have joined the group halfway through their journey after crossing the border alone. Radillo-Bernal stated that he walked with the victim, getting to know him, and encouraging him to continue when he started falling behind. Radillo-Bernal claimed he stayed with the victim while he called his family to say he was not going to make it before leaving him in the shade of a mesquite bush to find water and help.
On September 8, 2023, two witnesses came forward alleging that Radillo-Bernal was the foot guide and had threatened them to remain silent about his role in the conspiracy.
On January 23, 2024, Radillo-Bernal pled guilty to transporting an illegal alien resulting in the death of any person. After completing his term of imprisonment, Radillo-Bernal will be subject to deportation proceedings.
Estrada-Velasquez pled guilty to conspiracy to transport illegal aliens on October 19, 2023, and was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison. After completing his term of imprisonment, Estrada-Velasquez will be subject to deportation proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Jason T. Stevens, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations - El Paso, made the announcement today.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case with the assistance of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Assistant United States Attorney Alyson R. Hehr prosecuted the case.
Migrants attempting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border face grave dangers and risks. The harsh desert terrain, with scorching temperatures, rugged mountains, and vast stretches without water, poses immense physical challenges that have led to thousands of deaths from dehydration, heat stroke, and exposure. Migrants are also preyed upon by criminal organizations and human traffickers who exploit, extort, and abandon them in remote areas, leaving them vulnerable to violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
Those involved in human smuggling operations, including foot guides, drivers, and coordinators, face severe legal consequences if caught and prosecuted. Human smuggling is a federal crime under U.S. law, with penalties that can include hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences, especially in cases involving death, serious injury, or other aggravating factors.
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Mescalero Man Sentenced for Domestic ViolenceRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 90 months in prison after being convicted by a federal jury of assaulting his intimate partner by repeatedly strangling her.
There is no parole in the federal system.
A federal jury convicted Theodore Ian Chavez, IV, on February 28, 2024, following a four-day trial. According to evidence presented at trial and other publicly available court records, in the early morning hours of August 6, 2023, Chavez strangled and assaulted Jane Doe multiple times, resulting in the loss of consciousness and visible bruises.
After the assault, Jane Doe sought medical attention. As a result of the strangulation, Jane Doe had difficulty talking, eating, and drinking fluids, as well as bruises, redness, petechiae, and venous congestion.
At trial, Jane Doe described how she experienced severe pain, and that she thought she was going to die when Chavez was on top of her squeezing her neck and screaming that it was her fault.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Chavez will be required to serve 3 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 Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joni Autrey Stahl and J. Kirk Williams are prosecuted the case.
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Gallup Woman Sentenced for Drunken Rollover Crash That Killed Unrestrained InfantRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Gallup woman was sentenced to a five-year term of probation after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter for drunkenly rolling her vehicle and killing an 8-month-old boy who was ejected from the vehicle.
According to court document, on February 11, 2022, Mariah Chapo, 27, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, two friends, and 8-month-old John Doe traveled to collect firewood. When they arrived, the group began drinking alcohol. During this time, John Doe was unrestrained in the back seat.
An argument between the other two members of the group caused Chapo to drive off at high speed with John Doe. A mile down the road, Chapo failed to navigate a turn and rolled the vehicle. John Doe was ejected from the backseat and killed.
Chapo's BAC was 0.12 and 0.11, and an empty vodka bottle was found at the scene.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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 Matthew J. McGinley is prosecuting the case.
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Albuquerque Man Pleads Guilty to Manufacturing and Selling Machinegun Conversion DevicesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man pleaded guilty in federal court to engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and possession of a machine gun conversion device.
According to court documents, in December 2022, the ATF identified an Instagram user as possibly being in possession of and selling illegal machine gun conversion devices, which modify firearms to make them fire fully automatic. The ATF identified the user as Joe Jasso, 20, by the distinctive tattoo on his hand.
In January 2023, the account was deleted.
A new Instagram account was identified by the ATF in January 2023, which appeared to belong to Jasso based on the same hand tattoos being visible on posts on the account.
On February 3, 2023, undercover detectives from the Albuquerque Police Department contacted Jasso through Instagram and set up a controlled purchase of machine gun conversion devices from Jasso and his mother, Rachael Jasso. During the transaction, Jasso explained to the undercover detective how to install the conversion device onto a firearm and confirmed that it would allow the firearm to shoot fully automatic. Jasso also offered to obtain an assault rifle auto sear to sell to the undercover officer.
On February 16, 2023, federal law enforcement agents and local law enforcement executed a search warrant at Jasso’s residence in Albuquerque. Inside the home, law enforcement located and seized:
- Approximately ten firearms,
- Five machine gun conversion devices,
- A large amount of ammunition,
- Numerous ammunition magazines (both loaded and unloaded), and
- A 3D printer.
As part of his guilty plea, Jasso admitted he knew the conversion devices met the federal definition of a firearm and that he did not have a license to engage in the business of selling firearms.
The Court ordered that Jasso remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
At sentencing, Jasso faces up to 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Jasso will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.
Jasso’s co-defendant, Rachel Jasso, is currently scheduled to stand trial on July 8, 2024.
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 designed to modify a semi-automatic firearm so it is capable of fully automatic fire, that is, continuous firing with a single trigger pull. The possession, manufacture, and/or sale of machine gun conversion devices without proper licensing is a federal offense punishable by severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000. The use of machinegun conversion devices poses a significant public safety risk, as they transform semi-automatic firearms into dangerous machine guns capable of causing catastrophic harm.
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Arizona Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Child Sexual AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man was sentenced to 20 years in the Bureau of Prisons for the sexual assault of a 15-year-old girl on the Navajo Nation reservation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
Darwin Chee, 53, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, used threats of force and the fear of serious bodily injury to repeatedly sexually assault Jane Doe, a child relative within his care, at a residence located within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Chee will be required to serve a lifetime 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 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 Mark A. Probasco prosecuted the case.
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Tucumcari Man Sentenced for Federal Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Tucumcari man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for attempting to engage in sexual conduct with two fictitious minor children after an undercover FBI operation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, the investigation into Joseph Gadman, 42, began in mid-December 2022, when an undercover agent from the FBI engaged him on a social networking website known to be a hub for child sexual abuse material. Using the screen name "Gadmanj40," Gadman contacted the undercover agent and expressed interest in engaging in sexual acts with the undercover agent's fictitious children.
The conversation transitioned from the website to text messages, with Gadman providing his phone number to the undercover agent. In the text messages, Gadman detailed his desire to engage in sex acts with children ages 5 and 8 years old.
On January 13, 2023, Gadman traveled from Tucumcari to a pre-arranged meeting location in Albuquerque with condoms, cash, and snacks for the fictitious children. When he arrived, FBI agents swiftly arrested him. During a subsequent interview, Gadman admitted to being "Gadmanj40" but denied having intentions to follow through on the discussed acts.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Gadman will be required to serve 10 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 FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office as part of the New Mexico Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program is a nation-wide network of task forces including over 90 federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies in New Mexico dedicated to investigating, prosecuting and developing effective responses to Internet crimes against children.
Assistant United States Attorney Jaymie L. Roybal 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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Hobbs Man Sentenced for Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Hobbs man was sentenced to 71 months in prison for discharging a firearm in a neighborhood following a domestic dispute.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on August 23, 2022, Lazarus Sanders, 25, discharged a firearm towards the sky from a vehicle in a residential neighborhood in Hobbs, New Mexico. Officers spoke to the residents of the home where Sanders had discharged the handgun and determined that Sanders was in a relationship with the homeowner’s daughter and that they had been in a domestic altercation earlier that day. During the altercation, Sanders pointed a firearm at the homeowner’s daughter.
Officers reviewed home security surveillance footage from a nearby house and observed Sanders in a white four-door vehicle with front-end damage discharge approximately three rounds from a firearm outside a residence. Officers determined that another incident had occurred approximately 40 minutes before where Sanders had discharged one round of ammunition from the vehicle in front of the same house.
The officer provided a description of Sanders’ vehicle to other officers on patrol. A short time later, an officer in the area observed a vehicle that matched the description and conducted a felony traffic stop. The officer observed a firearm in plain view and secured the vehicle pending a search warrant.
Upon executing the search warrant, officers found a Taurus 9mm handgun under the driver’s seat with an extended magazine capable of accepting 17 rounds with an additional chambered round for a total of 18 rounds.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Sanders will be required to serve 3 years of supervised release.
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 Force investigated this case with assistance from the Lea County Drug Task Force and the Hobbs Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Ry Ellison is prosecuting the case.
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Bloomfield Man Sentenced for Federal Firearm and Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Bloomfield man was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty in federal court to federal firearm and drug trafficking offenses.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on April 7, 2023, officers with the Bloomfield Police Department observed Jerome Phillips, 34, on a public street in Bloomfield. Knowing Phillips had an outstanding arrest warrant, they approached him. Phillips fled, and officers pursued. During the pursuit, Phillips reached for his waistband and dropped a firearm.
Phillips eventually surrendered and the police discovered approximately 7.87 grams of pure methamphetamine on him.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Phillips will be required to serve 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 Bloomfield Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph M. Spindle prosecuted this case as part of a referral process between the U.S. Attorney's Office and 11th Judicial District Attorney's Office to bring both state and federal charges against individuals or organizations involved in criminal activities which violate both state and federal laws, such as drug trafficking, organized crime, or large-scale fraud schemes.
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Albuquerque Man Sentenced for Federal Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Albuquerque man sentenced to 66 months in prison after pleading guilty to federal charges arising from the armed robbery of a Federal Firearms Licensee in Albuquerque in 2022.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on April 29, 2022, special agents from the ATF were notified of an armed robbery that occurred the previous day at the Big 5 Sporting Goods Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) located at 2720 San Mateo Blvd. NE in Albuquerque.
According to employees, Dawayne Yates, 53, entered the store and requested to inspect a rifle. After confirming his identity, an employee handed Yates a Ruger Mini-14 rifle. Yates then pulled out a handgun, pointed it at the employee, and demanded another rifle. Fearing for her life, the employee gave Yates an Dickinson, model XX3D-M-2, 12-gauge shotgun.
Yates stole both firearms, placing them in a gun case he took from the store, and fled in a vehicle with no license plate.
Fingerprint evidence from the crime scene matched Yates. A victim identified him from a photo lineup. On May 2nd, Yates was arrested at a local motel, where police recovered:
- A 9mm Taurus pistol matching the description of the gun used in the robbery
- A .22 caliber Remington rifle
- Ammunition
- Body armor
- Suspected fentanyl pills
The stolen firearms from Big 5 were not recovered. Yates has prior felony convictions prohibiting him from possessing firearms or ammunition.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Yates will be required to serve five years of supervised release.
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 United States Attorney Patrick E. Cordova prosecuted the case.
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Sanostee Man Sentenced for Assaulting Jail GuardRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Sanostee man was sentenced to 19 months in prison for assaulting a jail guard and violating the terms of his supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on October 11, 2017, Zachariah Nez, 25, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for voluntary manslaughter. Upon his release from prison, Nez was placed on three years of supervised release.
On September 3, 2023, Nez was arrested for violating the conditions of his supervised release and was detained. While in custody, Nez punched a jail guard at Core Civic in Cibola County. The guard was uninjured.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Nez will be required to serve three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.
The United States Marshal Service investigated this case with assistance from Core Civic. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph M. Spindle is prosecuting the case.
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Pine Hill Man Sentenced for Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Pine Hill man was sentenced to 48 months in prison for sexually abusing a 7-year-old girl.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on May 28, 2022, Tony Jake Jr., 75, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, approached seven-year-old Jane Doe as she played outside a church she attended with her grandmother. Jake separated Doe from other children playing nearby and put his hand down the front of her pants.
Around this time, Doe's grandmother noticed she was not with the other children and began looking for her, eventually finding her with Jake. Shortly after, Doe's mother picked her up from her grandmother. Doe told her mother what Jake had done to her, and Doe's mother rushed her to the hospital.
Doe underwent an examination and later a forensic interview where she described in detail Jake's abusive actions.
Jake admitted his conduct to an FBI agent when questioned and later pleaded guilty to one count of abusive sexual contact.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Jake will be required to serve 5 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 Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Bell is prosecuting the case.
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