District of New Mexico
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Jury convicts Albuquerque man of federal robbery and firearms crimesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A federal jury today returned a guilty verdict on Jacquan Abe, 24, of Albuquerque, for one count each of robbery, using, carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and possession of a stolen firearm. Abe will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
A federal grand jury indicted Abe on April 14, 2021.
The evidence at trial showed Abe lived in a house directly behind an automobile repair shop on Eubank Boulevard. On Aug. 6, 2019, Abe confronted an employee of the auto business while wearing a Highland High School sweatshirt. Abe accused the auto business of spying on his home with its security cameras, which was not true. The shop employee became frightened by Abe’s aggressiveness and retrieved a pistol from inside the auto shop. The employee then returned to the front of the business where Abe was standing. Abe attacked the shop employee and they wrestled on the ground. The gun became loose and Abe picked it up. He made several attempts to shoot the weapon at the shop employee’s head, but no bullets discharged because the gun’s safety mechanism was engaged.
Abe then ran to an insurance business a short distance away while still armed with the gun. He went inside, pointed the gun at a sales agent and demanded she show him where the business kept its cash. The sales agent took Abe to the back of the business where he grabbed about $63 from a petty cash box. Abe tried to flee the scene, but a worker from a neighboring smoke shop confronted Abe with a gun of his own. Abe eventually tripped and dropped his gun. The smoke shop worker picked it up as Abe ran away.
The Albuquerque Police Department released video footage to the news media showing the fight at the auto shop. APD received an anonymous tip identifying Abe as the perpetrator. Police arrested Abe after the auto shop, insurance business and smoke shop employees all positively identified Abe in photo arrays. The trial evidence showed Abe previously attended Highland High School. The evidence further showed the robbery of the insurance business affected interstate commerce and the firearm that Abe used in the crimes was manufactured in Massachusetts and traveled in interstate commerce to New Mexico prior to the robbery.
Abe faces up to 10 years in prison for possession of a stolen firearm, up to 20 years in prison for robbery, and a minimum of seven years consecutive and up to life in prison for brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Trembley and Sean J. Sullivan are prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney’s Office announces settlement agreement with Santa Fe Boys and Girls Club over special project grantsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico Fred J. Federici today announced a settlement agreement with the Santa Fe Boys and Girls Club to resolve issues involving two special project grants awarded to the Club.
According to the settlement agreement, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded two grants to the Club to purchase land for construction of a new facility. HUD granted the Club $268,245 in 2003 and $497,050 in 2004, from which a total of $750,986.51 was distributed to the Club. In 2005 the Club used the funds to purchase a parcel of land located at 1107 Ocate Road in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
At issue was the Club’s failure to use the grant funds as outlined in the agreements. The government asserted that the Club failed to build a new facility and then did not return the funds as prescribed by HUD, federal law, and the grant agreements. Additionally, the sale of portions of the land by the Club, other encumbrances on the land incurred by the Club, and the Club’s failure to remit the proceeds of those encumbrances to the United States violate federal law, the grant agreements and the False Claims Act.
“The United States relies on grant recipients to use taxpayer-funded grants appropriately,” said U.S. Attorney Federici. “Failure to do so violates the law and the public trust and will be vigorously pursued by the Department of Justice.”
"This unfortunate mismanagement of HUD program funding not only violates the public trust, it is a gross injustice to the communities directly impacted," said Special Agent-in-Charge Bertrand Nelson with the HUD Office of Inspector General (OIG). "HUD OIG is committed to ensuring HUD community development grants are appropriately managed and used for the benefit of the communities they are intended to assist."
In accordance with the settlement, the Club has paid $1,407,640.58 to the United States. The United States releases the Club from any civil or administrative monetary claim for the Club’s conduct in this matter under the False Claims Act.
Assistant United States Attorney Sean Cunniff and Auditor Julie Chappell represented the United States in this settlement agreement.
Member of Zuni Pueblo sentenced to five years in prison for sexually abusing a minor in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Byron Calavaza, 33, of Zuni, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, was sentenced on Feb. 23 in federal court to five years in prison for sexually abusing a minor in Indian Country. Calavaza pleaded guilty on March 23, 2021.
According to the plea agreement, Calavaza sexually abused the minor victim on four occasions between Dec. 25, 2017, and Jan. 21, 2018, at a residence on the Zuni Pueblo. Calavaza admitted to committing intentional and unlawful sexual abuse of a minor who was between the age of twelve and fifteen.
Upon his release from prison, Calavaza will be subject to five years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
The Zuni Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Novaline D. Wilson prosecuted the case.
Deming man accused of production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Guillermo Rodriguez Garcia, 39, of Deming, New Mexico, made an initial appearance in federal court today facing charges of production of child pornography. Rodriguez Garcia will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for March 1.
According to a criminal complaint, on May 18, 2020, police responded to an incident relating to an accusation of sexual abuse of children. After follow-up interviews, on Jan. 26, 2021, Rodriguez Garcia was arrested on a New Mexico state charge of criminal sexual penetration of the first degree. A search of Rodriguez Garcia’s cellphone identified two videos as potential child pornography. The videos, from Aug. 26 and 27 of 2019, allegedly show Rodriguez Garcia engaging in sexual conduct with a 12-year-old victim.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Rodriguez Garcia faces a minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated this case with assistance from the Deming Police Department and the 6th Judicial District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Marisa A. Ong is prosecuting the case.
California man facing federal charge for interfering with a flight crewRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Samson Hardridge, 33, of Lancaster, California, made an initial appearance in federal court on Feb. 23 facing a charge of interference with flight crew members and attendants. Hardridge will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for Feb. 25.
According to a criminal complaint, on Feb. 18, Hardridge was a passenger on Southwest Flight 474 from Dallas to Burbank. After takeoff, Hardridge allegedly left his seat to use the lavatory at the back of the plane. A flight attendant asked Hardridge to stand in the aisle of the aircraft since the galley was too small. Hardridge allegedly had his hands in his pants and asked if the flight attendant wanted to see his penis. The flight attendant declined and again requested that Hardridge remain on the carpeted area of the aisle.
Hardridge allegedly proceeded to the door near the rear galley of the aircraft and began urinating in the corner. A second flight attendant informed Hardridge he could not urinate there and Hardridge allegedly became very hostile. Hardridge allegedly yelled and threatened the flight attendants and infringed on their personal space.
Hardridge was asked to take his seat. Out of concern for their safety as well as that of the other passengers, one of the flight attendants informed the pilot of the situation and the flight was diverted into Albuquerque.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Hardridge faces up to 20 years in prison.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Presiliano Torrez is prosecuting the case.
Luna County inmates plead guilty to assault chargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Four inmates at the Luna County Detention Center in Deming, New Mexico, have pleaded guilty in federal court to assault upon a person assisting federal officers involving physical contact. All four inmates had been convicted in federal court and sentenced within four to eight months prior to the assault.
According to the plea agreements and other court records, on Feb. 17, 2021, Johnny Black, 36, became angry with corrections staff and started arguing with them. When staff attempted to escort him out of the pod, Black struck an officer, starting an altercation that other inmates joined. Victor Sanchez, 25, saw the altercation and joined Black in striking the officer. As the altercation continued, Jacob Merkel, 23, grabbed another officer and punched him in the face. After Merkel and the officer went to the ground, Merkel got back up and continued the altercation. At that time, Henry Felix emerged from the crowd and attacked the second officer from behind, striking him in the head and body.
Black pleaded guilty on Feb. 22. Sanchez pleaded guilty on Feb. 9. By the terms of their plea agreements, Black and Sanchez each face one year and nine months for the offense. Merkel pleaded guilty on Feb. 7. Felix pleaded guilty on Feb. 4. By the terms of their plea agreements, Merkel and Felix each face one year and three months for the offense. Sanchez, Merkel and Felix are scheduled for sentencing on May 16. No sentencing date has been scheduled for Black.
The U.S. Marshals Service investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
Albuquerque man arraigned on federal firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Shane Alderete, 46, of Albuquerque, was arraigned in federal court today on a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Alderete will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
A federal grand jury indicted Alderete on Feb. 8. According to the indictment and other court records, on Dec. 2, 2021, a Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Deputy, who is an officer for the FBI’s Albuquerque Violent Crime Gang Task Force, performed a traffic stop on Alderete’s vehicle. After the deputy activated the lights on his marked patrol vehicle, Alderete allegedly continued at a low rate of speed for approximately two blocks before stopping.
After the deputy asked Alderete to get out of the vehicle, the deputy observed a firearm in the vehicle. The vehicle was sealed, towed and later searched. During the search, a loaded firearm and additional ammunition were recovered from the vehicle.
Alderete was previously convicted of two counts of possession of a controlled substance and three counts of trafficking of a controlled substance. As a previously convicted felon, Alderete cannot legally possess a firearm or ammunition.
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Alderete faces up to ten years in prison.
The Violent Crime Gang Task Force investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Niki Tapia-Brito is prosecuting the case.
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Albuquerque man accused of robbing postal carrierRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Rayshawn Boyce, 26, of Albuquerque, made an initial appearance in federal court today facing charges of robbery of a postal employee, theft or receipt of stolen or reproduced keys or locks, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Boyce will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for Feb. 22.
According to a criminal complaint, on Jan. 18 a United States Postal Service (USPS) letter carrier was gathering mail from his vehicle on Domingo Road NE in Albuquerque when Boyce and another person allegedly grabbed the carrier by the back of the shirt, pulled him from the vehicle and threw him onto the ground. Boyce and his accomplice allegedly pointed handguns at the carrier’s head and demanded his postal keys. The carrier complied and Boyce and his accomplice allegedly fled the area.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Boyce faces up to 10 years in prison for stolen keys, up to 10 years in prison for robbing a postal employee and a minimum of seven years and up to life in prison for brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
The United States Postal Inspection Service investigated this case with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant United States Attorney Letitia Simms is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney joins FBI in Albuquerque billboard campaign targeting violent crimeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico Fred J. Federici joined FBI Albuquerque Special Agent in Charge Raul Bujanda and local and state law enforcement partners to announce a new billboard campaign aimed at reducing violent crime.
The billboards’ message: “Gun crime = Federal time. No parole.”
“Our simple message today is for dangerous criminals who are responsible for driving up violent crime in Albuquerque,” said U.S. Attorney Federici. “And that message is that you should think twice if you are a convicted felon who chooses to carry a gun, or are a criminal who is drug trafficking or robbing people using a gun, because you could find yourself with a one-way ticket to federal court. This office vigorously enforces our federal laws, and we are resolved to both identifying the most dangerous criminals and determining the most just and effective avenue for prosecuting them. We are committed to restoring the sense of safety the people of Albuquerque so much deserve."
The U.S. Attorney and Special Agent in Charge were joined by local and state partners from the Violent Crime and Gang Task Force: Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina; Bernalillo County Sheriff Manny Gonzales; and New Mexico Department of Public Safety Secretary Jason Bowie.
Below are the U.S. Attorney’s remarks from the event:
Thank you and good morning.
My name is Fred Federici. I am the United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico. We really appreciate you joining us here today for this message. It is an important community message for all of us.
I first want to thank FBI Special Agent in Charge Raul Bujanda. He and his staff committed to this public awareness campaign, and we are happy to be here with him today and with all our state and local partners.
Getting the message on this billboard out to those who need to hear it is just one part of the Department of Justice’s ongoing strategy to combat violent crime. That’s a strategy that I know you will be hearing more about in the months to come from the Department. But combating violent crime is something to which the United States Attorney’s Office has been over the past several years and is fully committed, as the SAC just told you.
Our simple message today is targeted at felons who possess guns, carjackers, people holding up businesses with guns, bank robbers, and people trafficking drugs or committing other violent crimes and choosing to do that with guns. And our simple message to them is this: If you want to find yourself staring down the barrel of a federal indictment, then commit just one of the federal crimes I just listed and you will find yourself with a one-way ticket to federal court.
So, for example, if you have spent time in the past in a jail cell or a prison cell wearing government-issued orange coveralls and you get out and you decide that it’s still a good idea to possess a gun, then know that you may well find yourself on the working end of a federal indictment. We have federal prosecutors standing by ready to do just that.
And let me be very clear about the potential federal penalties that just some of these crimes carry that are implicated by this billboard behind me.
For example, if you illegally possess a firearm as a prohibited person, like a convicted felon, that’s a federal crime punishable by up to 10 years in a federal prison. Depending on the violence of your criminal history, you could be facing a mandatory minimum of 15 years in a federal prison cell for possessing that firearm.
Or if you decide to carry or use a firearm during a violent crime or drug trafficking crime, by federal law you can face a minimum of five years in prison and up to life in prison, and that’s on top of the penalty that you’re going to face for the underlying crime that’s attached to it. If you actually choose to brandish a firearm during that crime, well then guess what: it’s a minimum of seven years in federal prison on top of the penalty for the underlying crimes.
And if you are so foolish as to decide to discharge a firearm during such a crime, it’s a minimum of 10 years that you might get to spend sitting in a federal prison on top of the penalty that you will get for the underlying crime.
And finally, if you have certain prior convictions, you could be facing a minimum penalty as high as 25 years in a federal prison.
As our SAC just told us, offenders should also be aware that the FBI’s Violent Crime Task Force, which we put together in Albuquerque, and by “we,” I mean everybody standing up here - the Sheriff, APD, the FBI, the DPS, New Mexico State Police, everybody, and others – the FBI Violent Crime Task Force that has been put together in Albuquerque is formidable and it includes federal, state and local officers. And almost every single day prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office who lead our Project Safe Neighborhood initiative work together with our state counterparts to try to identify the most dangerous offenders. That’s the goal here: to try to identify the most dangerous offenders on the streets of Albuquerque and find the most just and effective venue for prosecuting them.
Those for whom the message on this billboard is intended should also be on notice that for the last few years we have developed the strongest working relationship that I know of over my 27 years of being a prosecutor in New Mexico. The strongest working relationship we have ever had with our state and local counterparts in this district. We are all fully committed to this fight.
In fact, since mid-2017 we have brought literally hundreds of cases involving some of the most dangerous offenders arrested by the Albuquerque Police Department over to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution. So these billboards should serve notice to those who need to hear it that we are here to vigorously enforce federal criminal laws.
Like you, all of us live here, all of us work here. Like you, all of our families live here, go to school here and work here. And we do not think it’s acceptable that there are criminals who think that they own the streets of Albuquerque, because they don’t. Our families should not have to go to bed at night used to hearing police helicopters flying overhead trying to catch dangerous criminals or hearing gunshots from our back yards.
So, I can assure you that we are fully committed to doing everything we can to help our state counterparts restore the sense of safety that the people of Albuquerque so much deserve.
Thank you.
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Albuquerque man pleads guilty to possession of child pornography and making false claims against the governmentRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Bobby Peña, 46, of Albuquerque, pleaded guilty on Feb. 10 in federal court to possession of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and false claims against the government. A federal grand jury indicted Peña on Oct. 9, 2019.
According to the plea agreement and other court records, Peña was the owner and sole operator of De La Peña LLC. From May 2008 to June 2017, Peña worked as a subcontractor to Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, and entered into a contract with SNL and the United States Department of Energy to provide specialized cleaning services, including air particle count monitoring and cleanroom cleaning services, for three buildings at SNL.
Between July 1, 2015, and Feb. 28, 2017, Peña fraudulently submitted invoices totaling $47,025 for air particle count monitoring and $6,000 for cleanroom cleaning services that had not been performed. In the plea agreement, Peña admitted to fraudulently submitting invoices for an additional $14,850 for air particle count monitoring and $2,250 for cleanroom cleaning services. Peña received a total of $70,125 from the Department of Energy for services for which he had fraudulently invoiced SNL but had not performed.
In connection with the investigation into Peña’s illegal activities, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the De La Peña business address on Dec. 13, 2017. During the search, investigators seized several electronic devices, including three external hard drives. Forensic analysis of the devices revealed approximately 3,972 images and 58 videos of child pornography, material that included depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
The false claims charges carry a statutory maximum of up to five years in prison and up to three years of supervised release. Peña faces a statutory maximum of up to 20 years in prison and a minimum of five years and up to life of supervised release for possession of child pornography.
The Department of Energy Office of the Inspector General investigated this case.
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Albuquerque man pleads guilty to drug trafficking and illegal firearms possessionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Richard “Fat Jesus” Wheeler, 38, of Albuquerque, pleaded guilty in federal court on Feb. 10 to an indictment charging him with three counts of distribution of 50 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, two counts of using and carrying a firearm during, in relation to, and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Wheeler will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
A federal grand jury indicted Wheeler on August 25, 2021. According to the plea agreement and other court records, on July 16, 2021, Wheeler, who was armed with a Glock pistol, sold 112.6 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer for $1,200. On July 19, 2021, Wheeler sold 205.8 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover officer for $2,000. On July 22, 2021, Wheeler sold 454.6 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover officer for $4,000.
On July 27, 2021, the New Mexico State Police arrested Wheeler and searched his vehicle. Police found two loaded firearms, approximately 1,500 fentanyl pills and $4,000 in cash. In his plea agreement, Wheeler admitted that he intended to sell the fentanyl pills and that he possessed the firearms in relation to drug trafficking.
By the terms of the plea agreement, Wheeler faces 15 to 17 years in prison.
The FBI’s Albuquerque Violent Crime Gang Task Force (VCGTF) investigated this case with assistance from the New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Jaymie L. Roybal and Alexander Uballez are prosecuting the case.
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Accountant sentenced for tax evasion after failing to report money embezzled from Alamogordo non-profitRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Marion L. Ledford, 67, of Alamogordo, New Mexico, was sentenced in federal court on Feb. 14 to one year and six months in prison for tax evasion for submitting a personal income tax return on April 28, 2016, that substantially underreported Ledford’s taxable income for 2015. Ledford pleaded guilty on Nov. 20, 2019.
According to the plea agreement and other court records, Ledford was a director for the Robert W. Hamilton Foundation, a non-profit organization providing scholarships to high school graduates in Otero County, New Mexico. Ledford controlled the foundation’s finances without oversight. For over five years, Ledford used his position of trust to write checks to himself totaling $1,785,300 from the foundation’s accounts.
Ledford filed tax returns, prepared by the CPA firm where he was a partner, for 2011 to 2016 that reported some of his income, but he did not provide any information regarding the receipt of this additional income and did not report the additional money he embezzled from the foundation. As a result, in addition to taking money from the foundation, Ledford avoided payment of $629,289 in taxes owed to the United States.
Upon his release from prison, Ledford will be subject to three years of supervised release. Ledford was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,785,300 to the Robert W. Hamilton Foundation and shall pay $629,289 to the Internal Revenue Service.
The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Richard C. Williams prosecuted the case.
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Former Navajo Nation employee sentenced for federal program fraudRead the Press Release
Relda Martinez, 57, of Prewitt, New Mexico, was sentenced in federal court on Feb. 10 to five years of probation and 50 hours of community service for federal program fraud. Martinez pleaded guilty on July 14, 2021.
A federal grand jury indicted Martinez on Oct. 16, 2020. According to the indictment and other court records, from 2014 through 2016, Martinez was employed as the Community Service Coordinator at the White Horse Lake Chapter House (WHLCH) on the Navajo Nation, which afforded her access to the WHLCH financial accounting system. Martinez used her access to issue numerous checks to other parties ostensibly as payments for legitimate work, but were issued in amounts greater than the actual cost of the work or for work that was not performed. Martinez admitted that the money went to herself, her family members and her friends.
Among the checks issued by Martinez were 12 checks issued to a person identified in court records as “A.K.” Martinez listed the purpose of the checks as for archeological surveys, which are required for any land development on the Navajo Nation. However, Martinez knew that A.K. was not a licensed archeologist and that A.K. did not perform any surveys.
“IRS Criminal Investigation, along with our law enforcement partners, will vigorously pursue individuals who take advantage of their positions and misappropriate government funds for their own financial gain,” said Andy Tsui, Special Agent in Charge IRS Criminal Investigation Denver Field Office. “We remain firm in our commitment to promote honest and ethical financial operations at all levels, and to prosecute those who violate the public’s trust.”
“We hope this prosecution and sentencing will serve as a deterrent to others contemplating stealing federal funds for their own personal gain,” said Jamie DePaepe, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Department of the Interior Office of Inspector General’s Western Region. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate individuals who violate the public’s trust and bring them to justice.”
In addition to her probation and community service, Martinez must pay $26,885.55 in restitution, either in full immediately or in monthly installments of $250.00 or 10 percent of her monthly income, whichever is greater.
The IRS Criminal Investigation Durango Office and the Department of the Interior Office of the Inspector General investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Gerson prosecuted the case.
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Albuquerque man sentenced to four years and nine months in prison for cyberstalking, online threats and identity theftRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Mark Christopher Arnold, 39, of Albuquerque, was sentenced in federal court on Feb. 9 to four years and nine months in prison for interstate communication of threats, cyberstalking, unauthorized computer access in furtherance of cyberstalking, and aggravated identity theft. Arnold pleaded guilty to a four-count indictment on July 14, 2020.
According to the indictment and other court records, Arnold and the victim were involved in a relationship from 2016 to 2018, when the victim ended the relationship after an incident in which Arnold pointed a loaded pistol at her. The victim obtained a restraining order against Arnold in 2019. Between April 10, 2019, and June 10, 2019, Arnold sent over 700 messages including numerous threats and harassing statements to the victim.
In May 2019, the victim closed her Facebook account, but created a new account under a different last name around March 2020 and did not share the new account with Arnold. Between May 22, 2020, and May 24, 2020, she received several security warnings from Facebook, including that her password had been reset and that the account had been accessed from a different location. On May 23, 2020, Arnold sent her a message stating that she had left her passwords on his computer and that he had read her messages. He also left a voicemail in which he admitted to accessing her account.
On May 23, 2022, Arnold created a new Facebook account under the same name as the victim’s account and used it to send messages to the victim. Around the same time, Arnold began using his own Facebook account to send messages to the victim’s friends that included links to private videos of the victim. Arnold had posted the videos online under an account name that was very similar to the victim’s Facebook account. The videos were posted without the victim’s consent.
Upon his release from prison, Arnold will be subject to three years of supervised release.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Paul Mysliwiec prosecuted the case.
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Santa Clara man sentenced to ten years in prison for firearm and drug crimesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Gabriel Lucero, 33, of Santa Clara, New Mexico, was sentenced in federal court on Feb. 10, to ten years in prison for firearm and drug offenses. On July 3, 2019, Lucero pleaded guilty to eight counts of being a felon in possession of firearms, one count of unlawful dealing in firearms, one count of illegal receipt of a firearm by a person under indictment, one count of conspiracy, one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and aiding and abetting.
A federal grand jury indicted Lucero on June 27, 2019. According to the indictment and other court records, on Aug. 11, 2018, law enforcement responded to a reported domestic dispute involving Lucero and were told that Lucero had fired multiple rounds in the air and possessed two firearms. Silver City police officers located Lucero and sealed and impounded his vehicle.
Investigators located Lucero’s cellphone during a search of the vehicle. Searches of Lucero’s phone revealed evidence that on Aug. 1, 2017, Lucero possessed at least 10 kilograms of marijuana with intent to distribute it and that he conspired with others to do so. The phone also contained evidence that from Aug. 1, 2017, to July 18, 2018, Lucero possessed numerous firearms, including rifles, pistols and shotguns. The phone contained additional evidence demonstrating that Lucero engaged in dealing firearms without a license on Aug. 1, 2017, and had received a firearm on Jan. 18, 2018, while under indictment for trafficking controlled substances.
Lucero was previously convicted of possession of marijuana in 2008 and voluntary manslaughter in 2012. As a convicted felon, Lucero cannot legally possess a firearm or ammunition.
Upon his release from prison, Lucero will be subject to three years of supervised release.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Silver City Police Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Armijo and Ry Ellison prosecuted the case.
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Navajo man in court for charges related to shooting in CoolidgeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – On February 10, 2022, Peter Oka, 30, of Coolidge, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared for his preliminary and detention hearing for charges of use of a firearm during a crime of violence, assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm, and assault resulting in serious bodily harm. The court ordered Oka detained pending trial.
According to a criminal complaint, on Jan. 26, Oka allegedly got into an argument with the occupants of a house located on the Navajo Nation Reservation. Oka allegedly retrieved a firearm and fired multiple rounds into the ceiling. Oka allegedly pointed the firearm at John Doe, shooting him multiple times. Oka allegedly then shot Jane Doe and himself. John Doe sustained several gunshot wounds to the chest. Oka had a gunshot wound that entered his neck and exited around his ear.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Oka faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Elisa Dimas is prosecuting the case.
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Albuquerque man will remain detained on bank robbery chargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Jason Scott Deane, 57, of Albuquerque, appeared in federal court on Feb. 4 for a preliminary and detention hearing on a charge of bank robbery. Deane will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to a criminal complaint, on Sept. 23, 2021, Deane allegedly entered the Bank of the West on Central Avenue SW in Albuquerque and handed a teller a demand note and a plastic bag. The teller complied with the demand, and Deane allegedly fled the bank on an orange motorcycle. Deane allegedly proceeded to the Sky City Casino in Cibola County, New Mexico, where he told an employee to call the police.
Cibola County Sheriff’s Deputies detained Deane until an FBI Task Force officer arrived. Deane was arrested on a New Mexico state warrant for robbery.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Deane faces up to 20 years in prison.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Trembley is prosecuting the case.
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Albuquerque smoke shop owner appears in court on firearm and drug chargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Gabriel Monico Guevara, 40, of Albuquerque, made an initial appearance in federal court today, facing charges of possessing firearms during, in relation to or in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Guevara will remain in custody pending a preliminary and detention hearing scheduled for Feb. 9.
According to a criminal complaint, Albuquerque police executed a search warrant on Guevara’s residence and a smoke shop he owns through a limited liability company (LLC). During the search of Guevara’s residence, investigators allegedly found seven firearms, six of which were loaded and three of which allegedly were stolen. They also allegedly recovered approximately 35.67 pounds of marijuana, 56 oxycodone pills and approximately 3 grams of cocaine. During the search of the smoke shop, investigators found three firearms, two of which were loaded and allegedly stolen. They also allegedly recovered an additional 20.47 pounds of marijuana.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Guevara faces a minimum of five years and up to life in prison.
The FBI’s Albuquerque Violent Crime and Gangs Task Force (VCGTF) investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque District Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s El Paso Division and Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Nora Wilson is prosecuting the case.
Bosque Farms man pleads guilty to assault and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Everett Paquin, 59, of Bosque Farms, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Isleta, pleaded guilty on Feb. 3 in federal court to assault with a dangerous weapon and being felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Paquin will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
A federal grand jury indicted Paquin on April 22, 2021. According to the plea agreement and other court records, Paquin assaulted his then-girlfriend, identified in court records as Jane Doe, at his home on the Pueblo of Isleta. Paquin admitted to pushing, slapping, punching and kicking the victim, as well threatening and injuring her with a utility knife. During the assault, Paquin would not allow the victim to leave and repeatedly threatened her and her family with harm and death. Jane Doe is also an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Isleta.
At the time of the assault, Paquin possessed a loaded shotgun in his home. As a convicted felon, Paquin could not legally possess a firearm or ammunition.
By the terms of the plea agreement, Paquin faces three years and five months in prison.
The Isleta Police Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander F. Flores is prosecuting the case.
Man from Mescalero faces federal assault chargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQERQUE, N.M. – Lance Cojo, 35, of Mescalero, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, appeared in federal court on Feb.1 for a preliminary and detention hearing on charges of assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to an intimate partner and assault of an intimate partner by strangulation in Indian Country. Cojo will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the criminal complaint, on the evening of Dec. 31, 2021, through Jan. 1, 2022, Cojo allegedly assault the victim, identified in records as A.K., at her residence on the Mescalero Apache Reservation, in Otero County. Cojo allegedly accused A.K. of cheating on him and assaulted her by stomping on her foot, hitting her in the head multiple times, biting her cheek, burning her shoulder using a smoking pipe and choking her. The next morning, Cojo again allegedly accused A.K. of cheating and grabbed her from her bed, where she and her children were lying, and began to choke her and kick her.
The victim, who is also a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, was taken to a medical center for her injuries where she was treated for a collapsed lung, fractured ribs, bruising to both eyes, face, neck and ribs.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Cojo faces up to ten years in prison.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case.
Former corrections officer arraigned on drug trafficking and contraband chargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Dennis Dean Garcia, Jr., 34, of Grants, New Mexico, was arraigned in federal court on Feb. 2 on one count each of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine and attempt to provide contraband in prison. Garcia was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 25.
Garcia was employed as a corrections officer at the Cibola County Corrections Center (CCCC) from January 2019 until Feb. 22, 2021. According to the indictment and other court records, on Feb. 22, 2021, CCCC personnel monitoring surveillance video allegedly observed Garcia remove an item from his pocket and place it into a box in a storage room. The item was recovered from the storage room and taken to the warden’s office for examination. Investigators found it to contain approximately 104 grams of methamphetamine.
“Garcia allegedly smuggled drugs into the Cibola County Corrections Center, compromising the safety and security of the institution,” said Cloey C. Pierce, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Dallas Field Office.
“It's an unfortunate reality that people in all professional positions can become involved in criminal activity,” said Greg Millard, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s El Paso Division. “But the men and women of the DEA will investigate those who commit such crimes and keep them accountable.”
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. Garcia is currently out of custody on conditions of release. If convicted on the drug charge, Garcia faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. If convicted on the contraband charge, he would face up to 20 years in prison.
The Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General and the Albuquerque District Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s El Paso Division investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Robert I. Goldaris is prosecuting the case.
Man from Mescalero faces federal assault chargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQERQUE, N.M. – Cisco Joseph Bob, III, 22, of Mescalero, New Mexico, appeared in federal court on Jan. 20 for a preliminary and detention hearing on a charge of assault of a federal officer. Bob will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to a criminal complaint, on Oct. 22, 2021, Bob allegedly assaulted a federal officer while being arrested and transported to a nearby hospital for his injuries on the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Law enforcement arrived at Bob’s residence after he had called 911 for help regarding sustained injuries. Law enforcement discovered Bob at his mother’s house behind his residence, allegedly bleeding and intoxicated. While being arrested for intoxication, which is a violation of the Mescalero Apache Tribal Code, Bob allegedly physically resisted arrest, and began to spit blood at law enforcement. His sister, Irene Bob, was also arrested during the incident for assault and domestic violence.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Bob faces up to eight years in prison.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and the Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case.
Man from Mescalero faces cyberstalking chargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Jayvian Chee, 19, of Mescalero, New Mexico, appeared in federal court on Feb. 1 for detention hearing where he was charged with cyberstalking.
According to a criminal complaint, from Nov. 28, 2021, through Jan. 9, 2022, Chee allegedly harassed a minor through social media platform Instagram by sending her threating messages and cyberstalking her. Chee created multiple spam accounts and threatened to send explicit material of the victim to others.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Chee faces up to five years in prison.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting this case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and DOJ’s Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Announces Justice Department Strategy to Combat Human TraffickingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland on Jan. 31 released the Justice Department’s new National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking pursuant to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.
Rooted in the foundational pillars and priorities of the interagency National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking, which President Biden released on Dec. 3, 2021, the Justice Department's National Strategy is expansive in scope. It aims to enhance the department's capacity to prevent human trafficking; to prosecute human trafficking cases; and to support and protect human trafficking victims and survivors.
“Human trafficking is an insidious crime,” said Attorney General Garland. “Traffickers exploit and endanger some of the most vulnerable members of our society and cause their victims unimaginable harm. The Justice Department’s new National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking will bring the full force of the Department to this fight.”
“The department’s national strategy helps to strengthen our efforts to combat human trafficking here in New Mexico,” said Fred J. Federici, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico. “We have always prioritized human trafficking, including working collaboratively with state, local and tribal investigators to identify and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law the perpetrators of these heinous crimes. The U.S. Attorney’s Office worked with the FBI to form a new Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking task force in 2020, comprised of the FBI, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, Albuquerque Police Department and investigators from the 2nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
“Our staff has worked to educate the public on such topics as the indicators of human trafficking and manipulation tactics by traffickers. In addition to having a fulltime coordinator for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons, our staff has performed presentations in tribal communities specific to human trafficking and DOJ initiatives that promote public safety in Indian Country. We’ve also worked with our tribal partners to develop Tribal Community Response Plans. This national strategy helps us to increase these efforts across all communities in New Mexico.”
The New Mexico Human Trafficking Task Force is led by the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office and service provider organization The Life Link. This task force is federally funded through the Bureau of Justice Assistance and provides training throughout the state with both law enforcement agencies and service provider organizations.
Among other things, the Justice Department’s multi-year strategy to combat all forms of human trafficking will:
- Strengthen engagement, coordination and joint efforts to combat human trafficking by prosecutors in all 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and by federal law enforcement agents nationwide.
- Establish federally-funded, locally-led anti-human trafficking task forces that support sustained state law enforcement leadership and comprehensive victim assistance.
- Step up departmental efforts to end forced labor by increasing attention, resources and coordination in labor trafficking investigations and prosecutions.
- Enhance initiatives to reduce vulnerability of American Indians and Alaska Natives to violent crime, including human trafficking, and to locate missing children.
- Develop and implement new victim screening protocols to identify potential human trafficking victims during law enforcement operations and encourage victims to share important information.
- Increase capacity to provide victim-centered assistance to trafficking survivors, including by supporting efforts to deliver financial restoration to victims.
- Expand dissemination of federal human trafficking training, guidance and expertise.
- Advance innovative demand-reduction strategies.
The department’s strategy will be implemented under the direction of the National Human Trafficking Coordinator designated by the Attorney General in accordance with the Abolish Human Trafficking Act of 2017.
If you believe that you or someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, please contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or Text 233733.
To read the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking click here.
Ready Pharmacy agrees to $400,000 settlement relating to Controlled Substances Act claimsRead the Press Release
ALBUQERQUE, N.M. – Fred J. Federici, U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico, has announced that Ready Pharmacy has agreed to a $400,000 settlement relating to civil claims brought by the Department of Justice on behalf of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) El Paso Division Regulatory Diversion Group.
Ready Pharmacy, which is no longer in operation, was registered with the DEA as a retail pharmacy and authorized to dispense controlled substances customers pursuant to the provisions of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
At issues in the civil claim was the failure to account for over 26,000 missing dosage units of controlled substances on March 15, 2016. Also, during an on-site inspection, controlled substances were discovered unsafeguarded and not properly stored.
By the terms of the settlement, the owners of Ready Pharmacy have agreed to pay $400,000 and the government will release Ready Pharmacy from any further civil or administrative monetary claims the United States has for the covered conduct under the CSA.
“In reaching this agreement, we emphasize the necessity of adherence to the Controlled Substances Act,” said U.S. Attorney Federici. “It is our duty to ensure that the conditions and responsibilities upon which that authority is based are upheld and that its limits are not abused by retail pharmacies registered with the DEA.”
“The Controlled Substances Act sets forth clear rules for all entities that dispense controlled substances,” said Greg Millard, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s El Paso Division. “Our office will continue to use its oversight responsibilities to ensure registrants comply with the law.”
Ready Pharmacy must pay an initial amount of $50,000 within 30 days of the settlement date and must pay the remaining $350,000 over a five-year period.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth F. Keegan represented the United States in the settlement agreement.
Two Navajo Nation men sentenced for robbery in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Julian Silversmith, 44, of Jones Ranch, New Mexico, was sentenced in federal court on Jan. 28 to nine years in prison for one count of interference with interstate commerce by robbery and violence and one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in Indian Country. Co-defendant Aurelius Eddie, 20, of Vanderwagen, New Mexico, was sentenced also Jan. 28 to twelve years in prison for one count of interference with interstate commerce by robbery and violence, one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in Indian Country. Both defendants are members of the Navajo Nation.
Silversmith pleaded guilty on Aug. 12, 2019, while Eddie pleaded guilty on Sept. 19, 2019.
According to their plea agreements and other court records, on April 18, 2019, Silversmith drove co-defendants Eddie and Kevin Marquez, 22, of Gallup, New Mexico, to a convenience store in Vanderwagon, knowing that they intended to rob the store. As Eddie and Marquez entered the convenience store, they began waving firearms, and Eddie fired a round into the ceiling. They then proceeded to steal alcohol from the refrigerators and behind the counter while Marquez pointed his firearm at the clerk. Eddie admitted that following the robbery he fired a round at two Navajo Police officers.
The crimes were committed on the Navajo Nation.
Upon release from prison, Silversmith and Eddie will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Marquez pleaded guilty on Sept. 26, 2019, to one count of interference with interstate commerce by robbery and violence, one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. On Jan. 27, 2021, Marquez was sentenced to seven years in prison and three years of supervised release.
The office of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the McKinley County Sheriff’s Department and Navajo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Spindle and Frederick Mendenhall prosecuted the case.
Santa Rosa man pleads guilty to trafficking methamphetamine and fentanylRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Paul James Jaramillo, III, 31, of Santa Rosa, New Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court on Jan. 27 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.
A federal grand jury indicted Jaramillo on May 12, 2021, on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
In the plea agreement, Jaramillo admitted that on March 11, 2021, while a resident at Diersen Charities Residential Reentry Center in Albuquerque, he accessed his “stash” of methamphetamine and fentanyl, which had been hidden in a bathroom stall. He admitted that the drugs in his possession were not meant for his own personal use and that he intended to deliver or transfer them to another person.
Jaramillo remains in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. The maximum penalty for each count is up to 20 years in prison.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle T. Nayback is prosecuting the case.
Church Rock man sentenced to six years in prison for sexually abusing a childRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Manison Largo, 42, of Church Rock, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was sentenced in federal court today to six years and six months in prison for abusive sexual contact with a child. Largo pleaded guilty on Oct. 19, 2021.
According to his plea and other court records, on multiple occasions between August 2017 and March 2018, Largo sexually abused the victim, who also is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. During the course of the abuse, which occurred at Largo’s residence in Church Rock on the Navajo Nation, the victim had not attained the age of 12. The victim was able to borrow a phone and called 911 to report the abuse.
Upon his release from prison, Largo will be subject to five years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander F. Flores prosecuted the case.
Albuquerque man faces charge of bank robberyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Andres Manuel Castro Aragon, 29, of Albuquerque, made an initial appearance in federal court today facing a charge of bank robbery. He will remain in custody pending a preliminary and detention hearing scheduled for Jan. 31.
According to a criminal complaint, on Jan. 25, Castro Aragon allegedly entered the First Convenience Bank located inside a Walmart on Coors Boulevard in Albuquerque and presented a demand note to the teller, implying he had a firearm. The teller complied and Castro Aragon allegedly fled with a large amount of cash. After security personnel observed Castro Aragon allegedly crossing I-40 on a pedestrian bridge, Albuquerque police located Castro Aragon, who allegedly had cash protruding from his pockets, and detained him.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting our financial institutions and the people they serve” said Fred Federici, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico. “Anyone who believes bank robbery is a quick means to easy money should understand that this is a serious crime with severe consequences. That quick robbery means up to 20 years in prison, and more if a gun is used.”
“Bank robbery is not only a crime against the financial institutions so many of us depend on, it's a threat to the safety of the employees, general public and law enforcement officers,” said Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. “The FBI and our partners are committed to tracking down each and every bank robber and bringing them to justice. We are asking for the public's help. Take a look at our website - bankrobbers.fbi.gov - and if you have any information, call us immediately at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Together, we can make our community safer.”
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Castro Aragon faces up to 20 years in prison.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Eva M. Fontanez is prosecuting the case.
Acoma man pleads guilty to involuntary manslaughter in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQERQUE, N.M. – Anthony Faustine, 41, of Pueblo of Acoma, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Acoma, pleaded guilty in federal court on Jan. 26 to involuntary manslaughter in Indian Country. Faustine will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
Faustine was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 9, 2020. According to the plea agreement, on April 22, 2020, Faustine attempted to evade law enforcement while driving with a blood alcohol level at twice the legal limit. Faustine lost control of the vehicle. As the vehicle rolled, a passenger, identified in court records as John Doe, was ejected and died from injuries sustained in the crash. The incident occurred on the Pueblo of Laguna.
By the terms of the plea agreement, Faustine faces a sentence of five years and 10 months in prison.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case with assistance from the Laguna Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
Man from Mescalero pleads guilty to federal assault in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQERQUE, N.M. – Romeo Martinez, 23, of Mescalero, New Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court on Jan. 25 to assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country. Martinez will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
According to the plea agreement and other court documents, on June 29, 2021, Martinez, who is not a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe or any other federally recognized tribe, arrived at his grandmother’s residence and assaulted a victim, identified in court records as “M.B.,” on the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Martinez accused his grandmother and M.B., who is an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, of having his vehicle towed, and began to scream at them. Martinez attacked M.B., hitting her face multiple times and causing a laceration to her forehead and a broken nose and septum. As a result of Martinez’s assault, the victim required medical treatment and surgery.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and the Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case.
Man from Mescalero pleads guilty to federal assault in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQERQUE, N.M. – Romeo Martinez, 23, of Mescalero, New Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court on Jan. 25 to assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country. Martinez will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
According to the plea agreement and other court documents, on June 29, 2021, Martinez, who is not a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe or any other federally recognized tribe, arrived at his grandmother’s residence and assaulted a victim, identified in court records as “M.B.,” on the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Martinez accused his grandmother and M.B., who is an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, of having his vehicle towed, and began to scream at them. Martinez attacked M.B., hitting her face multiple times and causing a laceration to her forehead and a broken nose and septum. As a result of Martinez’s assault, the victim required medical treatment and surgery.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and the Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case.
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Santa Fe duo appears in court on firearm and drug trafficking chargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Werni Lopez-Perez, 25, and Mario Guizar-Anchondo, 19, both of Santa Fe, New Mexico, made an initial appearance in federal court today, facing charges of conspiracy, possession with the intent to distribute 400 grams and more of fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. They will remain in custody pending an arraignment and detention hearing scheduled for Jan. 27.
Lopez-Perez and Guizar-Anchondo were indicted on Jan. 11. According to the indictment and other court records, on Dec. 30, 2021, Guizar-Anchondo allegedly was driving and Lopez-Perez allegedly was a passenger in a pickup truck when Santa Fe police performed a traffic stop for nonfunctioning tail lights. Neither Guizar-Anchondo nor Lopez-Perez had a valid driver license and the officer informed them the truck would be impounded. During a subsequent search of the truck, investigators allegedly recovered approximately 1,730.7 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 3,401.5 grams of fentanyl, five loaded firearms, and $5,563 in cash.
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted on the drug charges, Lopez-Perez and Guizar-Anchondo face a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. If convicted on the firearm charge, they would face a consecutive 5 years and up to life in prison.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Santa Fe Police Department, New Mexico State Police and Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Louis Mattei is prosecuting the case.
Mexican national in court to face carjacking chargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Jesus Manuel Castaneda-Villa, 31, of Mexico, made an initial appearance in federal court today, facing charges of carjacking and carrying, using, or possessing a firearm during, in relation to or in furtherance of a crime of violence. Castaneda-Villa remains in custody pending a preliminary and detention hearing scheduled for Jan. 26.
According to a criminal complaint, the victim allegedly met with Castaneda-Villa, her ex-boyfriend, in a hotel in Las Cruces. After the two began to argue, Castaneda-Villa allegedly threatened the victim and threw a toolbox at her. He allegedly demanded her car keys, then pointed a firearm at her and took her purse and cell phone as well. As Castaneda-Villa was going through her purse, the victim jumped from an open window, injuring herself. Castaneda-Villa then allegedly fled in the victim’s vehicle.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Castaneda-Villa faces a minimum of seven years and up to life in prison.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, Las Cruces Police Department, New Mexico State Police and District Attorney's Office for the 3rd Judicial District of New Mexico. Assistant United States Attorney Marisa A. Ong is prosecuting the case.
Santa Fe man facing federal firearms charges after shooting incidentRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Gilbert Michael Coriz, 35, of Santa Fe, New Mexico, appeared in federal court on Jan. 19 for a detention hearing on a charge of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Coriz will remain in custody pending trial.
Coriz was indicted on Dec. 8, 2021, and arraigned on Jan. 18. According to the indictment and other court records, on Jan. 1, 2021, law enforcement responded to a report of shots fired at a residence on Camino Capitan. After obtaining a search warrant, officers cleared and searched the residence and found Coriz allegedly hiding in a water heater closet in the garage. Officers also found three firearms and various types of ammunition.
Coriz was previously convicted of aggravated battery, felon in possession of a firearm, tampering with evidence, possession of a controlled substance and residential burglary. As a previously convicted felon, Coriz cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Coriz faces up to 10 years in prison.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Santa Fe Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Samuel A. Hurtado is prosecuting the case.
Man from Shiprock pleads guilty to sexually abusing a minorRead the Press Release
ALBUQERQUE, N.M. – Bennick Yazzie, 32, of Shiprock, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, pleaded guilty in federal court on Jan. 14 to sexual abuse of a minor. Yazzie will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
According the plea agreement and other court records, between Oct. 26, 2019, and Oct. 25, 2020, Yazzie sexually assaulted Jane Doe, who was 13 years old, on the Navajo Nation Reservation.
By the terms of the plea agreement, Yazzie faces four years and nine months in prison.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea N. Van Deventer is prosecuting the case.
Man from Saudi Arabia sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for illegal possession of a firearm and ammunitionRead the Press Release
ALBUQERQUE, N.M. – Hassan Alqahtani, 29, of Saudi Arabia, was sentenced in federal court on Jan. 6 to two years and six months in prison for being an alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition. A jury convicted Alqahtani on May 14, 2021.
According to a criminal complaint and other court records, on Aug. 8, 2019, the FBI received a tip about Alqahtani, a citizen of Saudi Arabia, illegally possessing a firearm and making threats. On Dec. 12, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Alqahtani’s residence and discovered a loaded firearm and ammunition. As an international student on a F1 student visa, Alqahani cannot legally possess a firearm or ammunition.
Upon his release from prison, Alqahtani may be subject to deportation by the Department of Homeland Security, and will be subject to two years of supervised release.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jack Burkhead and Paul Mysliwiec prosecuted the case.
Mescalero man sentenced to 10 years in prison for sexual abuse of a childRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – James Darius Caje, 28, of Mescalero, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, was sentenced on Jan. 11 in federal court to 10 years in prison for sexual abuse of a minor. Caje pleaded guilty on June 10, 2021.
According to the plea agreement and other court records, on the night of Feb. 24 or early morning Feb. 25, 2020, Caje allegedly entered the bedroom of the victim, who was 14-years old, and sexually assaulted her. The following day, the victim reported the assault to a school counselor, who then reported it to law enforcement. The assault occurred on the Mescalero Apache Reservation.
Upon his release from prison, Caje will be subject to 40 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
The FBI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan prosecuted the case.
Carlsbad man pleads guilty to enticement of a childRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. –Billy George West, 78, of Carlsbad, New Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court on Jan. 10 to enticement of a minor. West will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
According to the plea agreement and other court records, on April 30, 2021, West exchanged sexually explicit messages via telephone with a nine-year old girl in Florida. During the exchange, West using the screen name “Piper,” sent a photo of his genitalia and received a photo of the victim’s genitalia. West admitted that he knew the victim was a minor.
West faces a minimum of 10 years and up to a statutory maximum of life in prison.
The Roswell Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and the Carlsbad Police Department investigated this case with assistance from the Eddy County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Marisa A. Ong is prosecuting the case.
Rogers man pleads guilty to enticement of a childRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. –Jason Chandler Mapp, 41, of Rogers, New Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court on Jan. 10 to enticement of a minor. Mapp will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
According to the plea agreement and other court records, beginning in January 2020, Mapp, who at the time was a middle school bus driver for Dora Consolidated Schools in Roosevelt County, New Mexico, allegedly began using Instagram and TikTok to message two minor victims. Mapp allegedly used multiple accounts to pressure the victims into sending him nude photographs of themselves and each other. Mapp admitted that he knew the victims were minors.
Mapp faces a minimum of 10 years and up to a statutory maximum of life in prison.
The Roswell Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Marisa A. Ong and Joni Autrey Stahl are prosecuting the case.
Indiana man sentenced to 18 years in prison for sex trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Matthew “Stacks” Woods, 32, of Indiana, was sentenced in federal court on Jan. 10 to conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by means of force, threats, fraud and coercion and aiding and abetting. Woods pleaded guilty on June 8.
Woods and his co-conspirators, Cornelius “Chip” Galloway and Marcus “Taylor Made” Taylor, were charged in a superseding indictment on Dec. 3, 2019, with seven counts of sex trafficking, conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and attempted sex trafficking. The charges included two counts of sex trafficking of minors.
In his plea agreement, Woods admitted to his part in the conspiracy to recruit, maintain, advertise and transport victims for the purpose of prostitution. The victims were expected to work when they were told, with no say over their hours, fees or the locations in which they were to perform sex acts. The victims were not allowed to keep any of the money paid for their services.
According to the plea, Galloway was the leader of the organization, Taylor transported the victims and Woods physically punished victims for non-compliance.
Upon his release from prison, Woods will be subject to 10 years of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender. Additionally, Woods must pay $5,000 under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.
Galloway pleaded guilty on March 17, 2020, and was sentenced on Aug. 4, 2020, to 17 years in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release. Taylor pleaded guilty on May 21, 2020, and was sentenced on May 21, 2021, to eight years in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release. Both are required to register as sex offenders.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Albuquerque Police Department investigated this case with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jack E. Burkhead and Letitia C. Simms prosecuted the case.
Albuquerque man sentenced to two and a half years in prison for illegal possession of a firearm and ammunitionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Dan Keith Bobelu, 31, of Albuquerque, was sentenced today in federal court to two years and six months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Bobelu pleaded guilty on May 18, 2021.
According to the plea agreement and other court records, the offense took place in Albuquerque on Aug. 6, 2020. Bobelu admitted that he was carrying a revolver and ammunition in his pants pocket when he was taken into custody. As a previously convicted felon, Bobelu could not legally possess firearms or ammunition.
Upon his release from prison, Bobelu will be subject to three years of supervised release.
The Albuquerque Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Nayback prosecuted the case.
Shiprock man facing federal firearms and drug trafficking chargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Jason E. Begay, 40, of Shiprock, New Mexico, made his initial appearance in federal court on Jan. 6 on a two-count indictment charging him with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and using and carrying a firearm during the commission of a drug trafficking crime. Begay remains in custody pending an arraignment and detention hearing scheduled for Jan. 10.
According to the indictment and other court records, on Nov. 14, 2021, near Morgan Lake on the Navajo Nation, Navajo Police officers responding to a 911 call made contact with Begay who was slumped over his steering wheel. A handgun allegedly was in plain view on the front passenger seat. Begay allegedly led officers in a high-speed pursuit to the south side of Shiprock, where his vehicle became stuck in soft dirt near a fence line. Begay allegedly got out of the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot, but was apprehended by officers. Officers allegedly found Begay in possession of several firearms, ammunition and approximately 6.8 pounds of methamphetamine.
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Begay faces a minimum of five years and up to lifetime in prison.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and the Navajo Nation Police Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Novaline D. Wilson is prosecuting the case.
Former New Mexico Taxation and Revenue employee pleads guilty to wire fraud, identity theft, money launderingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – George Martinez, 45, of Albuquerque, pleaded guilty in federal court today to 42 counts each of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft and six counts of money laundering. A federal grand jury indicted Martinez on March 12, 2021.
According to the indictment and other court records, from May 18, 2011, through July 16, 2018, Martinez allegedly used his position as the Unit Supervisor/Bureau Chief of the Questionable Refund Unit at the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department to fraudulently alter tax refunds and direct them to bank accounts that he controlled.
Martinez perpetrated the fraud by copying tax returns that had already been processed or creating new returns in taxpayers’ accounts. He altered information such as taxpayers’ Social Security numbers, bank account numbers and withholding amounts in the returns. By changing the withholding amounts, he increased the amounts of the refunds. Martinez fraudulently directed $689,797 into accounts in his control.
Martinez faces a minimum of two years and up to 32 years in prison.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office and the IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department’s Tax Fraud Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy Peña and Paul Schied prosecuted the case.
Crownpoint man sentenced to eight years in prison for abusive sexual contact of a minor in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Emerson Pinto, 58, of Crownpoint, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was sentenced on Dec. 29 in federal court to eight years and one month in prison based on convictions for two counts of abusive sexual contact of a minor in Indian Country.
Pinto pleaded guilty on Aug. 11. In his plea agreement, he admitted that between Sept. 1, 2009, and Oct. 31, 2009, he knowingly engaged in unlawful sexual contact with two young victims, both of whom were under the age of 12 at the time of the offenses. Pinto admitted to touching the girls for sexual gratification during a visit to the victims’ home on the Navajo Nation in McKinley County, New Mexico.
Upon his release from prison, Pinto will be subject to five years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Novaline D. Wilson prosecuted the case.
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Zuni man pleads guilty to murder in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Brodie Coonsis, 28, of Zuni, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, pleaded guilty on Dec. 27 in federal court to second-degree murder in Indian Country.
According to the plea agreement and other court documents, Coonsis shot and killed John Doe on Feb. 26 at John Doe’s residence in Zuni. Coonsis, who had been using drugs and was upset with John Doe, travelled to the victim’s house on the Pueblo of Zuni. After John Doe opened the door, Coonsis fired his shotgun four times as he followed the victim up the stairs, eventually killing him.
Coonsis is currently in custody pending his sentencing, which has not been scheduled. He faces up to life in prison.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Marshall is prosecuting the case.
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Albuquerque man appears in federal court for bank robbery chargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Paul Ramirez, 33, of Albuquerque, appeared in federal court on Dec. 27 on a charge of bank robbery. Ramirez will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for Dec. 29.
A federal grand jury indicted Ramirez on Dec. 8. According to the indictment and other court records, on Nov. 1, Ramirez allegedly entered a Bank of the West location in Albuquerque and presented a demand note to a teller. The teller complied and Ramirez allegedly placed the money in a bag and fled the bank on a motorcycle.
Albuquerque police responding to the robbery spotted Ramirez and followed him. Ramirez allegedly proceeded to an off-road area where he discarded his helmet and backpack as well as some articles of clothing. Officers continued following Ramirez to an apartment and later arrested Ramirez after he left the apartment. At the time of the arrest, Ramirez allegedly had the money from the robbery in his possession.
An indictment is only an accusation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Ramirez faces up to 20 years in prison.
The FBI Violent Crimes and Gangs Task Force investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaymie L. Roybal is prosecuting the case.
Farmington man sentenced to three years in prison for federal firearms violationRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Gregory Diaz, 34, of Farmington, New Mexico, was sentenced in federal court on Dec. 14 to three years and one month in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Diaz pleaded guilty on May 12.
According to the plea agreement and other court records, on Oct. 3, 2018, Diaz sold a .40 caliber pistol to an undercover law enforcement officer. At the time, Diaz has four previous felony convictions in the State of New Mexico, including possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), attempt to commit residential burglary, child abuse and possession of a firearm or destructive device by a felon. As a convicted felon, Diaz could not legally possess a firearm or ammunition.
Upon his release from prison, Diaz will be subject to three years of supervised release.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jaymie L. Roybal and Jack E. Burkhead prosecuted the case.
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Albuquerque man facing federal firearms chargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Shiloh Y. McLemore, 42, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, appeared in federal court for a preliminary and detention hearing on Dec. 17 where he was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. A federal grand jury indicted McLemore on Dec. 8.
According to the indictment, on Aug. 23, McLemore was found in possession of 25 firearms and various types of ammunition in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. McLemore was convicted in 2016 for assault with a dangerous weapon in Indian Country. As a convicted felon, McLemore cannot legally possess a firearm or ammunition.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, McLemore faces up to life in prison and a minimum of 15 years if he is found to be an armed career criminal.
The FBI and U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Novaline D. Wilson is prosecuting the case.
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Las Cruces man convicted of federal firearms, narcotics offensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict on Dec. 16 in the trial of Paul Michael Astorga, 35, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, on one count each of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Astorga will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
According to an indictment and other court records, on Nov. 3, 2020, Astorga was found in possession of a firearm and fentanyl. At the time of his arrest, Astorga was subject to an active warrant for his arrest for a violation of the terms of his supervised release for a 2014 conviction of being a felon in possession of a firearm. A search of his residence resulted in the recovery of a loaded 9mm handgun and 66 pills containing fentanyl.
Astorga was previously convicted of multiple felonies, including robbery, possession of a controlled substance, tampering with evidence, trafficking by possession with intent to distribute, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, Astorga could not legally possess a firearm or ammunition.
Astorga faces an anticipated sentencing range of 1 to 12 and a half years in prison with a mandatory five-year sentence to be served consecutively for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The FBI, United States Marshals Service and Las Cruces Police Department Metro Narcotics Taskforce investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Joni Autrey Stahl are prosecuting the case.