District of New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE – A Newcomb man pleaded guilty to federal charges arising out of an altercation.

According to court documents, on February 28, 2025, James Smiley, Jr., 56, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, entered a residence within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation and pointed a firearm at three men while making threats to kill them without provocation.

Smiley pleaded guilty to one count each of assault with a dangerous weapon and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. At sentencing, Smiley up to life in prison. Upon his release from prison, Smiley will be subject to no less than five years and up to life of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting 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 U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Mexican national is facing federal charges for allegedly possessing almost 14,000 rounds of ammunition found during a routine traffic stop.

According to court documents, on August 14, 2025, an officer from Las Cruces Metro Narcotics conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Luis Carlos Martinez Monge, a Mexican national, for speeding, and found 699 boxes of ammunition concealed within the vehicle. Monge admitted to transporting the ammunition for an acquaintance, receiving $1,600 for expenses and agreeing to an additional $200 per box. He acknowledged that, as a nonimmigrant tourist, transporting ammunition was unlawful and that he hid the boxes. A total of 13,980 rounds, a vehicle, and $1,340 were seized.

Monge is charged with being an alien in possession of ammunition and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Monge faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Jason T. Stevens, Special Agent in Charge of HSI El Paso, made the announcement today.

Homeland Security Investigations El Paso investigated this case with assistance from Las Cruces Metro Narcotics and the Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Saltman is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Carlsbad man was sentenced to 211 months in prison after police chase and crash leads to the discovery of methamphetamine and firearms.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on June 5, 2022, a Carlsbad Police officer attempted a traffic stop on a speeding pickup driven by Christopher Saunders, 25, who fled at a high rate of speed, leading the officer to terminate the pursuit for safety reasons. Minutes later, the officer located the same truck after it had crashed and provided first aid to Saunders. During an inventory search of the pickup, officers found suspected methamphetamine and a firearm inside.

A subsequent search warrant uncovered 57.02 grams of methamphetamine and two loaded firearms. Saunders was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction in 2019.

Saunders pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a forearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Upon his release from prison, Saunders will be subject to five years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Roswell Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Eddy County Sheriff's Office and Carlsbad Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Saltman is prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A previously convicted felon is facing new federal charges after allegedly engaging in drug trafficking during their supervised release.

According to court documents, on September 3, 2025, agents from the Pecos Valley Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at the residence of Jason Cunningham, 46, in Carlsbad, New Mexico. Inside, agents located approximately 1,090 grams of methamphetamine and 56 grams of cocaine.

Cunningham is charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Cunningham faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life imprisonment.

“Traffickers see only profit, but what they leave behind are broken families and endangered communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison. “These charges reflect our determination to dismantle the networks that exploit addiction and threaten public safety. That work is only possible because of the extraordinary cooperation between federal, state, tribal and local partners who stand together against those who traffic misery.”

“Methamphetamine is one of the most destructive narcotics on the street. This type of crime is an assault on public health and safety, and individuals such as Cunningham profit off human misery.” said Jason T. Stevens, Special Agent in Charge of HSI El Paso. “HSI is united with our law enforcement partners to use every resource at our disposal to cut off their supply chains and hold them accountable.”

“The Eddy County Sheriff’s Office and the Pecos Valley Drug Task Force value our relationships with our federal partners,” said Eddy County Undersheriff Mark Cage. “The Cunningham case investigation and very successful prosecution are a testament to the teamwork it takes to ensure the safety and security of our citizens in Eddy County. Our message is clear: drug trafficking and lawlessness will not be tolerated!”

At the time of his arrest, Cunningham was on supervised release following an 87-month prison sentence for a 2017 drug conviction.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Jason T. Stevens, Special Agent in Charge of HSI El Paso, made the announcement today.

Homeland Security Investigations El Paso and the Pecos Valley Drug Task Force investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Renee Camacho is prosecuting the case.

The Pecos Valley Drug Task Force is comprised of law enforcement officers from the Eddy County Sheriff’s Office, the Artesia Police Department, the Bureau of Land Management and is part of the New Mexico High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program (HIDTA), a federal grant program that supports law enforcement efforts to combat the drug threat in the state.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.

In the one-week period ending September 12, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:

• 42 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
• 3 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
• 32 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
• 53 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.

Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for alien smuggling, illegally carrying a weapon, illegal reentry, drug trafficking, and domestic violence.

These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.

The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.

ALBUQUERQUE – A New Mexico teenager has been charged with making violent threats on social media following the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

According to court documents, on or about September 11, 2025, Jace Allen, 19, used an account on X.com under the alias “Jebron Lames” to post a series of violent and racist threats following the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025. Among the threats, Allen wrote that he planned to commit mass murder, target minorities and Jews, and shoot up unspecified locations. He also threatened an Ohio city council member directly, telling the official, “You’re gonna be one of the first to die.”

The FBI’s Toledo Resident Agency quickly traced the account to Allen’s phone and residence in Jamestown, New Mexico. Agents from the FBI Gallup Resident Agency located and interviewed Allen at his home on September 11, 2025. Allen admitted to making the posts, acknowledged being a Neo-Nazi who hates Jews and minorities, and said he wanted to help spark a civil war by terrorizing people online.

Although Allen stated he did not own a firearm, a search of his phone revealed videos of him firing a rifle and handgun in August 2025.

Allen is charged with transmitting communications containing a threat to injure another person and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing. If convicted of the current charges, Allen faces five years in prison.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew McGinley is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Jemez man was sentenced today to 63 months in prison for sexually abusing two minors.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, in 2012, Tyler Chinana, 35, an enrolled member of the Jemez Pueblo, engaged in unlawful sexual contact with a minor victim who was under the age of 12 at the time. In a separate incident in November 2022, Chinana engaged in similar unlawful sexual contact with a second minor victim who was also under the age of 12.

Chinana pled guilty to two counts of abusive sexual contact. Upon his release from prison, Chinana will be subject to ten years of supervised release and must register as a sexual offender.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Jemez Pueblo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meg Tomlinson prosecuted the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man pleaded guilty to dealing firearms without a license.

According to court documents, between 2019 and 2023, Anthony Lutz, 43, sold dozens of guns for profit. Lutz’s operation was discovered after Mexican police seized one of his rifles at a crime scene in 2022, leading to an investigation by the ATF that linked him to 11 additional crime scene firearms, six from crime scenes in Albuquerque and six from crime scenes in Mexico, and uncovered evidence of approximately 82 firearms purchased by Lutz, including 50 of the same two AR-15 models.

In his plea agreement, Lutz admitted to building receivers into functional firearms and selling them for profit using online platforms such as JasonsGuns.com.

Lutz pleaded guilty to one count of unlawfully dealing in firearms. In the plea agreement, the parties agreed to recommend that Lutz serve a term of five years of probation and pay a fine of $30,000.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany DuChaussee is prosecuting the case.

This effort is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man has been indicted on federal charges following a DEA investigation that uncovered a large-scale narcotics trafficking operation in Albuquerque.

According to court documents, on August 13, 2025, DEA agents conducted an undercover operation in Albuquerque in which Jose Magana Garcia, a Mexican national unlawfully present in the United States, was identified as a fentanyl trafficker and source of supply. During the operation, Garcia delivered approximately 2,000 fentanyl pills to an undercover officer through intermediaries. Agents later tracked him to an apartment in northeast Albuquerque where surveillance showed him conducting suspected drug transactions and using counter-surveillance driving tactics.

On August 27, 2025, agents executed a search warrant at the apartment and found Garcia inside. The search uncovered large quantities of narcotics concealed in a couch, including more than 8 kilograms of fentanyl pills, over 4 kilograms of heroin, and nearly 35 grams of methamphetamine. Agents also recovered packaging materials and prepackaged doses consistent with drug distribution.

Garcia is charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Garcia faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Omar Arellano, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s El Paso Division, made the announcement today.

The Drug Enforcement Administration Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office Special Investigations Bureau and the Laguna Pueblo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Elena Stiteler is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man has been indicted on federal charges in connection with the sexual assault and kidnapping of two victims in Indian Country.

According to court documents, between June 2024 and February 2025, Keanu Lee, 33, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, forcibly sexually assaulted a minor identified as Jane Doe 1. Lee is further accused of kidnapping Jane Doe 1 and assaulting her, causing serious bodily injury.

The indictment also alleges that between 2012 and 2014, Lee sexually assaulted a second minor victim, identified as Jane Doe 2.

Lee is charged with three counts of aggravated sexual abuse, one count of sexual abuse, one count of kidnapping, and one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. He will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which is currently schedule for January 12, 2026. If convicted, Lee faces up to life in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.

The FBI continues to investigate Lee’s involvement in crimes against other victims. If you have reason to believe you or someone you know may be a victim, or have information about Lee, please call the FBI at (505) 889-1300 or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was sentenced to 10 years and one month in prison for shooting a man during a confrontation.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on September 19, 2024, Devin Wade Wyaco, 34, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, fired a handgun from the passenger seat of a moving vehicle at two bicyclists following a dispute, striking one of them in the abdomen. The victim was treated at a local hospital and survived the shooting.

As a previously convicted felon, Wyaco was prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.

Wyaco pled guilty to three felony crimes: assault with a dangerous weapon; using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence; and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Upon his release from prison, Wyaco will be subject to five years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has pleaded guilty to federal charges for sexually abusing a woman.

According to court records, on August 19, 2023, Stanton Hannaweeke, 63, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, used force to engage in nonconsensual sexual conduct with Jane Doe.

Hannaweeke pleaded guilty to one count of sexual abuse. At sentencing, Hannaweeke faces up to life in prison. Upon his release from prison, Hannaweeke will be subject to no less than five years and up to life of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Burkhead is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – Two Albuquerque men have pleaded guilty to conspiring to transport and harbor undocumented immigrants after federal agents uncovered a stash house linked to a kidnapping and ransom scheme.

According to court documents, the investigation began on March 1, 2025, when the FBI received a kidnapping complaint reporting that the victim’s family was being extorted for ransom under threats of violence and cartel involvement. Agents traced the ransom calls to a residence in southwest Albuquerque and executed a search warrant the following day. Inside, they found 11 undocumented immigrants, including an unaccompanied minor, along with more than 20 cell phones and a ledger of smuggling activity. Victims reported being locked in rooms, threatened with violence, and told not to contact law enforcement. Both Isaias David Jose and Tomas Mateo Gaspar were identified as running the stash house and producing ransom videos.

Jose and Gaspar admitted to their roles in a conspiracy to transport and harbor undocumented immigrants in Albuquerque between late February and early March 2025. Jose maintained the stash house and took videos of the individuals he was harboring, while Gaspar lived at the residence without paying rent and supported the operation by cooking, cleaning, and helping manage the premises. Both defendants acknowledged they knowingly participated in the conspiracy, which was carried out in exchange for money.

At sentencing, Jose and Gaspar both face up to 10 years in prison. Upon their release from prison, Jose and Gaspar will be subject to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Mysliwiec is prosecuting the case as part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man is facing federal charges after allegedly attacking a woman with a knife in a grocery store parking lot, leaving her with life-threatening injuries.

According to court documents, on August 31, 2025, Navajo Police Department officers responded to a stabbing in the parking lot of the Bashas Grocery Store in Shiprock, New Mexico. Officers located the victim with serious stab wounds and significant blood loss. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment and survived.

A witnesses identified the assailant as Tony Tsosie, 56, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. Tsosie was later detained nearby with blood on his hands and shoes matching prints at the scene.  Tsosie denied involvement, provided a false identity, and claimed not to be carrying a knife, though a witness described him stabbing the victim multiple times after a verbal altercation.

Tsosie is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Tsosie faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Roswell man pled guilty to federal charges for making multiple bomb threats to government offices across several states.

According to court documents, on February 14, 2025, Jeffrey Ramon Diaz, 43, made threatening calls to several governmental agencies and offices, including a United States Senator’s office, the New Mexico Second Judicial District Court in Bernalillo County, the Doña Ana County Magistrate Court, and the Governor of Pennsylvania’s office.

During the calls, Diaz identified himself by name and made explicit threats of violence and bombings. He told a congressional staffer he was threatening to bomb the Senator’s office. He left a voicemail for a New Mexico state court judge threatening to blow up the judge’s building and harm the judge. He also spoke directly to a receptionist at the Doña Ana County Magistrate Court, declaring a bomb threat and threatening to set the building on fire. Additionally, Diaz called the Pennsylvania Governor’s office claiming he had placed a bomb in the Governor’s home and threatened to kill those inside.

Diaz knew at the time that he did not have bombs at any of these locations but made the threats intending to cause fear, panic, and intimidation.

On August 11, 2025, Diaz pled guilty to four counts of Malicious Threat to Injure by Fire or Explosive. At sentencing, Diaz faces up to 10 years in prison.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Brendan Iber 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 Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, U.S. Marshals Service, Las Cruces Police Department and Chaves County Sheriff’s Office. Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher McNair is prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A Mexican national who concealed his identity from officers and was found with firearms and multiple types of narcotics in Española has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on April 24, 2023, officers with the Española Police Department found Marco Antonio Lozoya-Ugarte, a Mexican nationalwho entered the United States on a business visa, unresponsive behind the wheel of a running vehicle in Española, New Mexico, within the exterior boundaries of Santa Clara Pueblo. After removing Lozoya-Ugarte from the vehicle, officers discovered a holstered handgun on his hip, a loaded rifle magazine inside the vehicle, and an AR-15 style rifle in plain view. A subsequent search revealed additional firearms and approximately 148 grams of methamphetamine, 22.5 grams of cocaine, 605 fentanyl pills, 204 ecstasy pills, and 6.5 grams of black tar heroin as well as drug paraphernalia, and distribution materials. Lozoya-Ugarte initially gave officers a false name but later admitted his true identity.

Lozoya-Ugarte pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. Upon his release from prison, Lozoya-Ugarte will be subject to five years of supervised releasewhich shall convert to unsupervised release upon his deportation from the United States.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Española Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert James Booth II and Mark A. Probasco are prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – Two men have been indicted on federal charges for an assault that left one victim seriously injured.

According to court documents, on January 10, 2025, Myron Scott, 34, of Navajo, New Mexico, and Eric Scott, 34, of Fort Defiance, Arizona, both enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, assaulted John and Jane Doe with a baseball bat and a large stick, resulting in serious bodily injury to John Doe.

Myron and Eric are both charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury for the attack on John Doe. Myron faces an additional count of assault with a dangerous weapon for the attack on Jane Doe. Myron and Eric will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Myron and Eric both face up to 10 years in prison.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – A federal grand jury has indicted a Dulce man on a charge of assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to an intimate or dating partner.

According to court documents, on July 23, 2025, Shelton Atole, 35, an enrolled member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, assaulted the victim and the assault resulted in substantial bodily injury.

Atole will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Atole faces up to 5 years in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.

In the one-week period ending September 5, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:

• 39 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
• 4 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
• 44 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
• 42 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.

Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for drug trafficking.

These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.

The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Mentmore man has pleaded guilty to all counts in a federal indictment charging him in relation to assaulting and strangling an intimate partner and causing her substantial bodily injury.

According to court records, on December 5, 2024, Alery Al Reid, 26, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, punched, strangled and threatened to kill Jane Doe.

Reid pleaded guilty to a count of assault of an intimate partner by strangling and a second count of assault of an intimate partner resulting in substantial bodily injury. At sentencing, Reid faces up to 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Reid will be subject to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Cuba man was sentenced to eight years in prison for shooting into a vehicle during a highway chase resulting in the killing a 14-year-old passenger.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, May 16, 2022, Rodgerick Tsosie, 32, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, chased a vehicle carrying several occupants along New Mexico Highway 197 near Torreon. Tsosie had been called to break up a fight between the driver of the vehicle, John Doe 2, and other family members. As he pulled alongside the vehicle, Tsosie fired once towards John Doe 2 but inadvertently struck John Doe 1, his 14-year-old nephew, in the head. Despite efforts by an off-duty EMT, ambulance, and medivac crew, John Doe 1 was pronounced dead that evening at a hospital in Santa Fe.

Law enforcement from the Navajo Nation Police Department, Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office, and FBI responded to the scene. Witnesses identified Tsosie’s vehicle, and multiple occupants immediately told authorities he was the shooter. Tsosie later admitted to firing a shot, stating, “I guess I’ll take the fall for it.”

Tsosie pled guilty to voluntary manslaughter and using, carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Upon his release from prison, Tsosie will be subject to five years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The FBI’s Albuquerque Violent Crime Task Force investigated this case with assistance from the Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office and the Navajo Nation Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco prosecuted the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – Two Chimayo women were sentenced to prison for a bank fraud scheme that spanned more than two years and for breaking into a Tesuque Pueblo gas station.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, between January 2020 and August 2022, Angelica Dominguez, 41, and her wife Billy Jo Gussler, 44, carried out a bank fraud scheme that involved stealing and fraudulently cashing checks intended for other people. The scheme caused more than $40,000 in actual loss.

While engaged in this scheme, the pair also burglarized a Tesuque Pueblo gas station in May 2022, breaking a glass door to enter and stealing lottery tickets and cigarettes. They were linked to the theft when Dominguez tried to cash stolen lottery tickets the next day. The burglary caused nearly $2,500 in losses, including property damage.

Neither Dominguez nor Gussler is a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe.

Dominguez and Gussler both pled guilty to one count of theft in Indian Country and seven counts of bank fraud. Dominguez was sentenced to 33 months’ imprisonment for her role in these offenses, and Gussler was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment. Upon their release from prison, Dominguez and Gussler will each be subject to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the theft case with assistance from the Tesuque Tribal Police and Quay County Sheriff’s Office. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the fraud case with the assistance of the Santa Fe Police Department, Espanola Police Department, and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Meg Tomlinson and Maria Stiteler are prosecuting the cases. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A convicted felon who trafficked massive quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine and continued committing crimes while in custody was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, the FBI’s Violent Gang Task Force began investigating Jerry Bezie, 36, after he openly flaunted gang affiliation, firearms, and illicit wealth on social media, drawing attention to his suspected role in large-scale drug trafficking. On March 23, 2023, FBI SWAT executed a search warrant at Bezie’s residence in the South Valley. Agents encountered Bezie coming from the hallway leading to the master bedroom, where they found a loaded pistol beneath a bag of Xanax pills, a gold-colored money counter, and blue fentanyl pills marked “M-30” in and around the toilet. A backpack containing crystal methamphetamine was located near a semi-automatic assault rifle, and another pistol was found next to a bag of cash. Outside, agents discovered a large diaper box inside Bezie’s Hummer H2 containing approximately 114,000 fentanyl pills. Bezie admitted the drugs, firearms, and cash belonged to him and that he had tried to flush pills down the toilet.

In total, investigators seized more than seven kilograms of methamphetamine, over 100,000 fentanyl pills, $64,000 in cash, multiple firearms, and body armor.

While being held at the Cibola County Correctional Center, Bezie continued his criminal activity by trafficking drugs, smuggling contraband, and participating in a violent assault on a correctional officer.

Bezie subsequently pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Upon his release from prison, Bezie will be subject to five years of supervised release.

As part of his sentence, Bezie was ordered to forfeit the $64,000 in cash, multiple vehicles including a 2018 Polaris Slingshot motorcycle, a 2018 CanAm ATV, and two trailers, his Albuquerque residence, five firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, ballistic vests, jewelry, a gold-colored money counter, and seven cell phones.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The FBI’s Violent Gang Task Force (VGTF) investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office and New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Mysliwiec is prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man pleaded guilty to using social media to issue violent threats against the President.

According to court records, between January 2 and January 4, 2025, Tyler Miles Leveque, 37, posted multiple videos and messages on social media threatening to kill then President-elect Donald Trump and others at an upcoming rally. Leveque’s posts included statements such as "…you and your rich friends are dead no threat a promise" and references to violence at an event scheduled for January 19 in Washington D.C.

During an interview with agents from the U.S. Secret Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation on January 6, 2025, Leveque admitted to making the threatening posts, believing his posts constituted freedom of speech, and to recently purchasing a firearm. Investigators confirmed Leveque had recently bought a gun from a local business, although he had not yet received the firearm.

Leveque pleaded guilty to making threats against the President. At sentencing, Leveque faces up to five years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Leveque will be subject to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Resident Agent in Charge Ron Emmot of the U.S. Secret Service Albuquerque Resident Office and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The U.S. Secret Service investigated this case with the assistance of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office and the Albuquerque Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – Two brothers were sentenced for sexually abusing a minor, with one receiving 204 months in prison and the other 135 months.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, between 2019 and 2022, Dustin Roy Rockmen, 33, of Navajo, New Mexico, and Kenzie Roy Rockmen, 26, of Hunters Point, Arizona, both enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, used electronic communications to coerce a minor and engage in sexual acts with the child.

Dustin and Kenzie both pled guilty to one count of coercion and enticement of a minor. Upon their release from prison, Dustin and Kenzie will be subject to 10 years of supervised release and must register as sex offenders.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert James Booth II and Mark A. Probasco are prosecuting this 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. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A Vanderwagon man was sentenced to 85 months in prison for using a firearm to threaten and assault another individual.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on May 1, 2023, Perris Jeremiah Arthur, 36, confronted the victim at his residence on the Navajo Nation. After starting a physical altercation, Arthur retrieved a .22 caliber rifle from his ATV, fired two rounds into the residence, and later pointed the weapon directly at the victim, threatening to cause serious harm. Fortunately, the victim was not injured during the alternation.

Arthur pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and using carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Upon his release from prison, Arthur will be subject to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man is facing federal charges for firing multiple rounds at two people during a domestic dispute on the Navajo Nation.

According to court documents, on August 1, 2025, Bryson Chee, 42, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, who had been drinking and behaving erratically, arrived at a residence in Shiprock as a passenger in a vehicle with two others. After exiting the vehicle, Chee retrieved a handgun, pointed it at the occupants, and then began shooting as they attempted to drive away. A nearby witness and child took cover as shots were fired. Investigators later recovered multiple spent shell casings and confirmed bullets struck the victims’ vehicle.

Officers from Navajo Nation Police Department located Chee shortly after the shooting. Chee ignored commands to stop and threw a backpack containing a loaded handgun down a steep embankment before being taken into custody.

Chee is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Chee faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack E. Burkhead is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.

In the one-week period ending August 29, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:

• 42 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
• 6 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
• 23 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
• 56 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.

Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for drug trafficking and illegal reentry.

These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.

The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.

ALBUQUERQUE – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced today the seizure of two marketplace domains and one blog used to sell fraudulent identity documents to cybercriminals worldwide. The operators of VerifTools produced and sold counterfeit driver’s licenses, passports, and other identification documents that could be used to bypass identity verification systems and gain unauthorized access to online accounts.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began investigating in August 2022 after discovering a conspiracy to use stolen identity information to access cryptocurrency accounts. The investigation revealed that VerifTools offered counterfeit identification documents for all 50 U.S. states and multiple foreign countries for as little as nine dollars, payable in cryptocurrency.

The FBI used the VerifTools marketplace to generate and purchase counterfeit New Mexico driver’s licenses, which were paid for with cryptocurrency. The FBI has identified the equivalent of approximately $6.4 million of illicit proceeds linked to the VerifTools marketplace. The following counterfeit documents are an example of New Mexico driver’s licenses obtained from VerifTools.

“The internet is not a refuge for criminals. If you build or sell tools that let offenders impersonate victims, you are part of the crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison. “We will use every lawful tool to disrupt your business, take the profit out of it, and bring you to justice. No one operation is bigger than us together. With our partners at every level of law enforcement we will protect New Mexicans and defend those who stand up for our community.”

"The removal of this marketplace is a major step in protecting the public from fraud and identity theft crime," said Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Division. "Together with our partners, we will continue to target and dismantle the platforms that criminals depend on, no matter where they operate."

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance.

The Justice Department collaborated closely with investigators and prosecutors from multiple jurisdictions in this investigation, including the District of New Mexico, Eastern District of Virginia, the Dutch National Police and the Netherlands Public Prosecution Service.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Newcomb man was sentenced to 37 months in prison for assaulting another man with a knife, leaving the victim with serious bodily injuries.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on November 12, 2024, Josiah Bodie, 23, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, used a knife to assault a man outside Basha’s grocery store in Shiprock, New Mexico, following an argument. Surveillance video showed Bodie approaching the victim with a knife as the victim attempted to walk away. Witnesses reported that Bodie threw the victim against a wall before stabbing him multiple times.

The victim sustained serious bodily injury that required hospitalization for several days. Bodie was also treated for injuries sustained during the altercation.

Bodie pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Upon his release from prison, Bodie will be subject to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.

In the one-week period ending August 22, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:

• 65 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
• 6 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
• 34 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
• 32 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.

Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for involuntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, assault, fraud and illegal reentry.

This week, Luis Carlos Martinez-Moje, a Mexican national, was charged by criminal complaint with being an alien in possession of ammunition. During a traffic stop in Doña Ana County, law enforcement found approximately 13,980 rounds of ammunition hidden in a concealed compartment in his vehicle. During a subsequent interview, Martinez-Moje admitted that he traveled to Albuquerque to collect the ammunition at the request of an acquaintance he had met in Chihuahua, Mexico, in exchange for payment.

These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.

The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington woman pleaded guilty on July 30, 2025, to federal charges for intentionally causing a motorcyclist to crash following an argument.

According to court records, on September 2, 2024, Tenille Quintawna Peshlakai, 33, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, argued with the victim at a gas station before driving away. Peshlakai then turned around, caught up to the victim, and swerved her vehicle to block his path. This forced the victim to lay down his motorcycle and crash into Peshlakai’s vehicle. Peshlakai fled the scene before law enforcement or medical personnel arrived.

Peshlakai pleaded guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon. At sentencing, Peshlakai faces up to 10 years in prison. Upon her release from prison, Peshlakai will be subject to up to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona woman pleaded guilty to assimilated federal charges after a high-speed, alcohol-fueled crash that endangered three young children.

According to court records, on May 4, 2024, Avedale Johnson, 40, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, drove intoxicated at speeds over 100 mph on U.S. Highway 491 with three unbelted children under 12 in her car, crashed into another vehicle, and fled from law enforcement. The three unbelted children were unharmed during the incident. Johnson later admitted to drinking vodka before the incident.

Johnson pleaded guilty to abandonment or abuse of a child (no death or great bodily harm). Johnson will be subject to up to three years in prison and five years of supervised probation.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man was sentenced to 40 months in prison for causing a high-speed drunk driving crash on the Navajo Nation that killed two passengers and seriously injured another.

According to court records, on November 14, 2024, Marvin Albert Wauneka, 40, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, drank heavily before reporting to work, where he was too intoxicated to perform his job. Wauneka then went to a Wal-Mart, continued drinking, and later drove and continued to drink with four passengers at speeds of 85 to 100 miles per hour on Navajo Route 54, where he lost control and caused a single-vehicle rollover crash.

Two passengers were killed at the scene, a third suffered serious injuries but was able to escape the wreckage, and a fourth passenger escaped without serious harm. Wauneka’s blood alcohol content was measured at .298 upon arrival at the hospital.

Wauneka, who has a prior DWI conviction, pleaded guilty to two counts of involuntary manslaughter and one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. He was previously convicted in Navajo Nation Tribal Court and sentenced to 167 days in custody for this offense. Upon his release from prison, Wauneka will be subject to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A former New Mexico resident now living in Texas was sentenced to 24 months in prison for knowing endangerment in the storage and disposal of hazardous waste without a permit.

According to court documents and evidence presented at the sentencing hearing, Daniel Winard, 52, of Houston, Texas, previously inherited property in New Mexico from a retired chemist for an energy company. When Winard took control of the property, he found a large assortment of hazardous waste had been left behind, including laboratory grade chemicals.

Winard contacted local government officials about the process for properly disposing of the chemicals and learned it was expensive. Winard later arranged to dispose of the chemicals unlawfully at nine locations in the Albuquerque area without a permit from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the State of New Mexico. The chemicals dumped included cyanide, yellow phosphorus, calcium carbide, and thionyl chloride.

Winard knew the grave risks of dumping some of these chemicals down the drain. Winard also knew the chemicals posed an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury to passersby, first responders, and others. Winard knew some of the chemicals would react violently to water, could release poisonous gas, and were harmful to the environment. At one point, Winard remarked that “some dumbass fireman” might find the chemicals and “get the surprise of his life.”

The City of Albuquerque and Bernalillo County coordinated an extensive clean-up effort with a private contractor after the chemicals were discovered in August 2018. The total clean-up cost paid by the City of Albuquerque and Bernalillo County was $198,654.46. The EPA later took custody of the waste and analyzed the chemicals.   Federal prosecutors commended the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Department, the Natural Resources Section of the Bernalillo County Public Works Department, the City of Albuquerque’s Solid Waste Management Department, and the Hazardous Waste Bureau of the New Mexico Environment Department for their critical role in ensuring the hazardous waste was properly removed before anyone was injured.

“There is no excuse for putting lives, property, and the environment at risk by dumping hazardous chemicals,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison. “We will not tolerate reckless disregard for our communities' safety. Those who endanger others for their own convenience can expect to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

"Today’s sentencing demonstrates EPA’s commitment to safeguarding the public by investigating crimes and prosecuting people who knowingly endanger lives,” said Kim Bahney, EPA Special Agent in Charge. “Our investigation uncovered that the defendant deliberately discarded dangerous and reactive hazardous wastes in multiple areas, intending to ‘surprise’ first responders.”

On April 25, 2022, Winard pleaded guilty to one count of knowing endangerment in storing and disposing of hazardous waste without a permit.

Upon his release from prison, Winard will be subject to three years of supervised release and must pay $9,527.55 in restitution.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and EPA Special Agent in Charge Kim Bahney made the announcement today.

The EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division, Southwest Area Branch investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean J. Sullivan prosecuted the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A Tohatchi man pleaded guilty to federal charges for attacking a female victim (Jane Doe) during an argument, leaving her with serious injuries.

According to court records, on March 5 and 6, 2024, Victor Badonie, 33, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was with Jane Doe at her home in Zuni, New Mexico. An argument broke out, during which Badonie assaulted and strangled Doe, resulting in Jane Doe’s hospitalization for her serious bodily injuries.

Badonie pleaded guilty to the felony crimes of assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault by strangulation. At sentencing, Badonie faces up to 20 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Badonie will be subject to up to three years of supervised release. Badonie must also make restitution to Jane Doe for costs directly tied to his criminal conduct.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Pueblo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Zach Jones is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man was indicted on federal charges for assaulting three individuals, including two minors.

According to court documents, on September 16, 2024, Kendrick Harvey, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted Jane Doe, causing serious bodily injury. He also shoved John Doe, a minor, and struck Jane Doe 2, a minor, with a closed fist, placing both minors in danger of serious harm.

Harvey is charged with assault resulting in serious bodily injury and two counts of abandonment and abuse of a child and will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Harvey faces up to 10 years in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.

In the one-week period ending August 15, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:

• 32 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
• 9 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
• 22 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
• 46 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.

Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for armed robbery, arson, drug trafficking and illegal reentry.

The District of New Mexico reported significant enforcement actions this week. An Albuquerque couple was indicted for conspiring to harbor illegal aliens and laundering proceeds from human smuggling through real estate. In Deming, a teenager was charged with firearms and drug trafficking offenses following an undercover purchase that included an ounce of cocaine, a handgun, and a Glock switch conversion device, as well as a high-speed flight from a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint. Additionally, three criminal complaints were filed against separate defendants for possession with intent to distribute cocaine after seizures at the I-25 Border Patrol checkpoint on August 12 and 13.

These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.

The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.

ALBUQUERQUE – On April 17, 2025, Attorney General Pamela Bondi appointed Ryan Ellison to serve as New Mexico’s United States Attorney on an interim basis for a period not to exceed 120 days. Following the expiration of his interim appointment, Mr. Ellison now serves as New Mexico’s Acting United States Attorney at the request of the Attorney General.   

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison issued the following statement:

“I’m honored to have President Trump and Attorney General Bondi’s confidence to continue serving as New Mexico’s top federal prosecutor. I applaud New Mexico’s federal district judges for declining to appoint someone other than the Trump Administration’s choice to lead the United States Attorney’s Office as they had the discretion to do at the end of my interim appointment. Consistent with the laws and Constitution of the United States, the appointment of a U.S. Attorney is a process that should be sorted out in a collaborative and professional manner between the executive and legislative branches of government. I am confident that process will eventually play out here and across the country. I thank New Mexico’s U.S. Senators for their commitment to reviewing my qualifications and I look forward to working with public servants of all political stripes to combat crime in New Mexico. In the interim, I will continue to lead the United States Attorney’s Office in the same way that I have over the last four months—without fear, without favor, and with public safety as my top priority.

For me, this job has never been about the title or the position. Since day one, I have rolled up my sleeves and worked with a great sense of urgency to address New Mexico’s systemic crime problem. In just a few short months, I have shifted the U.S. Attorney’s Office back into high gear to keep New Mexicans safe. Our partnership with the U.S. military and the U.S. Border Patrol has made our southern border more secure than at any point in our nation’s history. The evidence is in the numbers. Since I was appointed, illegal border crossings are down 92% and immigration-related prosecutions are up 180%. Moreover, we are confronting New Mexico’s crime epidemic head on by getting back to basics. Compared with the four months preceding my appointment, violent crime and firearms prosecutions are up 23% and drug prosecutions are up 53%. Meaningful progress will take sustained effort over time, but we’re headed in the right direction.

For however long I serve, I will work relentlessly to improve the quality of life in New Mexico by enhancing public safety. That starts by protecting our citizens and prosecuting those who commit crimes. The people of New Mexico deserve nothing less.”

ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced today to 51 months in prison for a violent attack that left a victim seriously injured.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on November 2, 2022, Spencer George Klinekole, 41, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, assaulted Jane Doe with a baseball bat, causing serious bodily injury.

Upon his release from prison, Klinekole will be subject to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Executive Assistant United States Attorney Christopher McNair is prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 36 months in prison for sexually abusing a minor.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, in February of 2022, Carlos Caje, 37, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, engaged in sexual contact with a minor under the age of 12.

Caje pled guilty to abusive sexual contact. Upon his release from prison, Caje will be subject to 15 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jackson K. Dering V and Joni Stahl prosecuted the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man was sentenced today to 84 months in prison for possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl after fleeing from officers attempting to arrest him on a warrant.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on May 15, 2024, Las Cruces Police Department officers attempted to arrest Guillermo Yanez, 47, on an outstanding warrant out of El Paso, Texas, for tampering with evidence in a narcotics case. When officers approached, Yanez fled on foot, jumping a wall into an apartment complex. During the chase, officers saw him reach into his waistband in an apparent attempt to discard contraband. After deploying less-lethal munitions that were ineffective, officers apprehended Yanez and found methamphetamine in his pocket along with cash.

A search of the area where Yanez fled turned up a container holding fentanyl-laced pills and powdered fentanyl. In total, officers recovered approximately 50 grams of pure methamphetamine and 99 grams of fentanyl. In a post-arrest interview, Yanez admitted the drugs were his, that he had thrown the fentanyl container during the chase, and that he distributed drugs to support his methamphetamine use.

Yanez pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Upon his release from prison, Yanez will be subject to four years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Las Cruces Police Department and Las Cruces/Doña Ana County Metro Narcotics Agency. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Y. Armijo is prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was sentenced to 22 years in prison for committing a series of armed robberies that targeted retail stores across the city in 2023.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, between July 11 and September 16, 2023, Demetrius Antonnie Bailey, 41, and an accomplice committed a series of armed robberies at Harbor Freight Tools, multiple Metro by T-Mobile locations, a T-Mobile store, a Verizon store, and a JC Penney. During the robberies, they brandished a BB gun, a toy gun, and, in one instance, a real handgun to threaten employees and security while stealing electronics, cell phones, cash, and clothing valued at tens of thousands of dollars.

At the time of his arrest on September 28, 2023, Bailey, a repeat violent offender with prior armed robbery convictions, was in possession of a stolen firearm.

Bailey pleaded guilty to 10 counts, including interference with commerce by robbery, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime, and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. Upon his release from prison, Bailey will be subject to five years of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department and New Mexico Department of Justice. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Elena Stiteler and Natasha Moghadam are prosecuting the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque couple is accused of conspiring with human smugglers, turning their rental properties into stash houses for human smuggling operations, and laundering what they believed to be human smuggling profits through a real estate deal structured to avoid detection.

According to court records, between March 2023 and July 2025, Nan Zhang, 44, and her husband Sanjay Khurana, 62, both naturalized U.S. citizens, conspired with human smugglers to rent properties in Albuquerque to be used as stash houses for individuals who had been unlawfully brought into the United States. The properties included four locations in Albuquerque:

• An eight-unit apartment complex at 919–923 Alvarado Dr. SE
• A six-unit apartment complex at 529–535 Utah St. NE
• A three-story townhouse at 4505 Villa Loma Ln. NE
• A six-unit apartment complex at 1033–1037 Alvarado Dr. SE

The indictment further alleges that Zhang and Khurana charged inflated rents for units used to harbor illegal aliens, warned co-conspirators of law enforcement activity, and continued leasing apartments to human smugglers even after law enforcement discovered undocumented individuals at the properties. In one instance, officers responded to a shooting and found 12 undocumented individuals hidden inside a stash house.

Beginning in late 2024, Zhang and Khurana also allegedly conspired to launder money they believed to be proceeds of human smuggling. According to court documents, they offered to sell real estate for large cash payments while structuring the deals to avoid financial reporting requirements, including offering to use a third-party name and falsify sale records.

“This case exposes the dangerous lengths to which some will go to profit from human suffering,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison. “Turning homes into hideouts for smuggling operations and disguising illicit profits through real estate transactions not only fuels crime but endangers our communities. By targeting criminal enterprises that exploit our city’s neighborhoods and real estate market, we are cutting off the infrastructure these smugglers rely on to operate.”

“Human smugglers prey on the vulnerable and exploit them for profit, showing complete disregard for human life,” said Jason T. Stevens, Special Agent in Charge of HSI El Paso. “This case demonstrates our unwavering commitment to dismantle these dangerous networks, protect our communities from harm, and ensure that those who enable or profit from these crimes are brought to justice.”

“The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to defend our homeland. By leveraging our Safe Street and Transnational Organized Crime Task Forces, we were able to combat the influence and reach of these organized crime groups," said Philip Russell Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Albuquerque Field Office. "We are grateful for our partnerships with HSI, IRS, and APD as we fight to eliminate the transnational organized crime groups that threaten the national and economic security of the United States.”

Zhang and Khurana are charged with conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and conducting unlawful financial transactions. If convicted, they face forfeiture of the properties and up to 20 years in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Special Agent in Charge Jason T. Stevens of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Carissa Messick of IRS Criminal Investigation's Phoenix Field Office made the announcement today.

Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and IRS Criminal Investigation jointly investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Trembley and Patrick E. Cordova are prosecuting the case as part of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorney’s Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs (OIA), among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 405 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 355 U.S. convictions; more than 305 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets. 

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 102 months in prison for a drive-by shooting that left a victim seriously injured.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on January 9, 2025, Larence Cambridge, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was a passenger in his own car when he fired multiple shots at another vehicle carrying two victims along U.S. Highway 64 near Shiprock, New Mexico. Cambridge struck the vehicle several times, seriously injuring one occupant, then fled the scene.

Upon his release from prison, Cambridge will be subject to five years of supervised release and over $13,000 in restitution.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco prosecuted the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – Solomon Peña was sentenced to 960 months in prison for orchestrating a politically motivated shooting spree and plotting to murder witnesses to obstruct justice.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Solomon Peña, 42, ran for District 14 of the New Mexico House of Representatives during the November 2022 midterm elections. After his electoral defeat, Peña falsely claimed the election was rigged and began pressuring members of the Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners not to certify the results. When they refused, Peña recruited Jose Trujillo and Demetrio Trujillo to carry out a series of shootings at the homes of several public officials. Peña provided cash, instructions, and addresses, and personally participated in one of the attacks. One of the shootings involved a fully automatic machine gun. Multiple rounds struck areas of the homes where children had recently been or were sleeping.

Following his arrest, Peña attempted to have Jose and Demetrio Trujillo murdered to prevent them from testifying, offering fellow inmates money and a vehicle in exchange for their deaths.

On March 23, 2025, a federal jury found Peña guilty of all counts of the indictment, including conspiracy, being a felon in possession of a firearm, four counts of intimidation and interference with federally protected activities, four counts of using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and three counts of solicitation to commit a crime of violence.

“Violence and intimidation have no place in our elections,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison. “This sentence shows that through the tireless work of our agents and prosecutors we will protect our democracy and bring offenders to justice.”

"The FBI is committed to protecting the American people and bringing justice to those who try to harm others and disrupt our democratic processes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell. “We are grateful for our local and federal partners who worked tirelessly to ensure Solomon Peña is no longer a harm to the public."

Upon his release from prison, Peña will be subject to three years of supervised release. The court also ordered him to pay restitution and a $250,000 fine.

Jose Trujillo pleaded guilty to conspiracy, interference with federally protected activities, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, discharging said firearm, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 37 months in prison.

Demetrio Trujillo pleaded guilty to conspiracy, two counts of interference with federally protected activities, one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and discharging said firearm and was sentenced to 180 months in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office and the Albuquerque Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy Peña and Patrick E. Cordova for the District of New Mexico and Trial Attorney William Gullotta of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section prosecuted the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced today to three years of probation for a violent assault that injured two people.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on July 9, 2024, Jerome Weaver, 22, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted two adults at a residence in Shiprock, New Mexico, while intoxicated. Weaver choked one victim, pressed a loaded handgun equipped with a laser attachment to their head, and pointed the firearm at the second victim. A minor witnessed the assault and called 911. When officers arrived, they found the victims injured and observed Weaver holding a firearm, which he surrendered without incident.

Upon his release from prison, Weaver will be subject to three years of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting 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 Brittany DuChaussee is prosecuting the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man was sentenced to 123 months in prison following an investigation into a fentanyl trafficking operation in southern New Mexico.

According to court records, since early 2024, the FBI’s Southern New Mexico Safe Streets Gang Task Force, together with Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics and the Las Cruces Police Department, have been investigating a drug trafficking organization distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine in and around Las Cruces, New Mexico. The investigation identified Orangie Lee Fisher, 37, as a key participant in the operation.

On April 3, 2024, agents executed a federal search warrant at a motel room occupied by Fisher at the Imperial Sky Motel in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Inside the room and Fisher’s vehicle, agents recovered approximately 600 grams of suspected marijuana, $5,693 in cash, firearms magazines, and ammunition.

After the seizure, agents continued to surveil Fisher and conducted controlled narcotics purchases at his Las Cruces residence. On October 4, 2024, agents from the Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics executed a state search warrant at that residence, where Fisher was present.

During the search, Fisher ignored commands and fled into a bedroom before surrendering. Approximately 1,000 fentanyl pills were found scattered throughout the residence, and a stolen handgun wrapped in a latex glove was recovered from the bedroom closet.

When interviewed at the scene, Fisher denied living at the residence and denied any knowledge of the drugs or firearm.

Fisher subsequently pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Upon his release from prison, Fisher will be subject to five years of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics, the Las Cruces Police Department, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Y. Armijo prosecuted the case. 

ALBUQUERQUE – A previously convicted felon was sentenced to 96 months in prison after agents recovered fentanyl and a stolen firearm during an attempted arrest in Las Cruces.

According to court records, on May 21, 2024, FBI task force officers and Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics agents attempted to stop a vehicle associated with an ongoing investigation into fentanyl trafficking. The driver, later identified as Jaime Lopez, 35, fled at a high rate of speed, and officers did not pursue due to public safety concerns. Agents later determined the vehicle had recently been purchased by Lopez and that he was the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant for failure to appear.

Approximately three hours later, agents located the vehicle again in Las Cruces and observed Lopez exit a public establishment with two other individuals. As officers approached, Lopez fled on foot, discarding a package later found to contain approximately 690 fentanyl pills. Officers pursued and arrested Lopez a short time later.

Agents recovered a stolen handgun from a backpack inside the vehicle. In a post-arrest interview, Lopez admitted he fled because of the outstanding warrant and discarded the pills to avoid getting caught with them. He also admitted to possessing the firearm for protection, stating that he had previously sold drugs in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, and feared retaliation from former associates.

At the time of the offense, Lopez was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to prior felony convictions, including a 2005 conviction for second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit second-degree murder.

Lopez subsequently pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Upon his release from prison, Lopez will be subject to five years of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics, the Las Cruces Police Department, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Y. Armijo prosecuted the case.

ALBUQUERQUE – A Deming teenager is facing federal charges in two separate cases after allegedly selling cocaine and a modified firearm capable of automatic fire to an undercover officerand later fleeing from a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint during a high-speed incident.

According to court documents, on February 11, 2025, an undercover agent conducted a controlled purchase of cocaine from Gerald Anthony Lopez, 19. During the transaction, Lopez allegedly displayed a firearm equipped with an extended magazine and an MCD. Lopez offered to sell it for $1,300 with the switch or $1,000 without. He also claimed he could supply additional weapons, conversion devices, and narcotics.

On February 20, Lopez met with the agent again and sold cocaine and the firearm equipped with an MCD for $1,300. Lopez demonstrated how the switch worked and confirmed the extended magazine was loaded with 30 rounds.

Lopez is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a machinegun, possession of an unregistered machinegun and possession of a firearm which was not identified by a serial number and will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Lopez faces up to 25 years in prison.

In addition to the firearms charges, Lopez is also facing a second federal case stemming from a separate incident. On May 6, 2025, Border Patrol agents encountered Lopez at the Interstate 10 Border Patrol checkpoint. Lopez initially consented to a canine inspection after agents detected the odor of cannabis coming from the vehicle. However, after briefly stopping at the secondary inspection area, Lopez fled the checkpoint at a high rate of speed.

Agents quickly alerted nearby units, and Border Patrol agents from Deming located and stopped Lopez on Highway 549 near Ventura Road. Based on the incident, Lopez is also facing charges for high-speed flight from an immigration checkpoint. If convicted, Lopez faces up to five years in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Special Agent in Charge Brendan Iber of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, andChief Patrol Agent Walter N. Slosar of the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector made the announcement today.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the firearms offense with assistance from the New Mexico State Police. The U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector is investigating the immigration-related offense. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.

Machine gun conversion devices and auto sears are illegal devices that transform semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons capable of continuous firing with a single trigger pull. The possession, manufacture, and sale of these devices without proper licensing is a federal offense carrying severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000.

The proliferation of these devices poses an immediate and critical threat to public safety. Between 2018 and 2023, the ATF recovered thousands of machine gun conversion devices, indicating an alarming trend in their availability and use. Violent street gangs are increasingly employing these devices, devastating communities and neighborhoods with unprecedented firepower.

This dramatic increase in illegal automatic weapons puts both civilians and law enforcement at extreme risk. Officers responding to incidents may find themselves severely outgunned, facing weapons capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute. The potential for mass casualties in such encounters is staggering.

Law enforcement agencies are racing against time to intercept these devices before they can be used in violent crimes. Public cooperation is crucial in combating this threat. If you have information about illegal firearms or conversion devices, please contact the ATF immediately:

Call: 1-888-ATF-Tips (1-888-283-8477)

Email: ATFTips@atf.gov

Visit: www.atf.gov/atf-tips

Your tip could save lives and prevent these dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands. The time to act is now, before our community fall victim to the devastating impact of these illegal automatic weapons.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.