Federal authorities have announced charges against a Shiprock resident in connection with a fatal incident that occurred on November 15 in northwestern New Mexico.
Arrest and Investigation
Harlan Joe, a 21-year-old enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was taken into custody following the discovery of a deceased woman outside a residence in Shiprock. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico confirmed the arrest in a recent statement.
Shiprock is located within the Navajo Nation near the border between New Mexico and Arizona.
Prosecutors indicated that the victim displayed clear evidence of abuse and trauma when law enforcement arrived at the location.
Statements and Circumstances
During questioning, Joe reportedly informed investigators that he was aware his actions were wrong. Authorities noted that he had been drinking throughout the day prior to the alleged crime.
Joe is currently being held without bond while awaiting trial proceedings, which have not yet been scheduled.
If found guilty, he could receive a sentence of up to life imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the FBI's Farmington Resident Agency from the Albuquerque Field Office, with support from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations.
