Michael Lee Moody has been sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for his involvement as an accessory after the fact in the murder of Rosenda Strong. The sentencing was announced by Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker and handed down by Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian.
The case dates back to October 2018, when Jedidah Iesha Moreno shot and killed Rosenda Strong following an argument at a residence known as the House of Souls in Wapato, Washington. Court documents reveal that after the murder, Moreno sought assistance in disposing of Strong's body. The body was placed in a freezer and later dumped near M&R Towing off Highway 97 in Toppenish, Washington.
Subsequent events involved multiple individuals, including Andrew Norris Zack and Jamaal Pimms, who assisted with moving Strong's body. An altercation between Moreno and Zack led to further violence, culminating in Moreno being shot by Uriel Balentin Badillo. Moreno's body was moved multiple times before being discovered on November 28, 2018.
Human remains identified as belonging to Rosenda Strong were found on July 4, 2019. Acting United States Attorney Barker highlighted the collaborative efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, and Yakama Nation Tribal Police over several years to bring those responsible to justice.
W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Seattle, emphasized their commitment to investigating crimes on tribal lands regardless of how long it takes. He expressed hope that this case serves as a reminder of their dedication to seeking justice for victims.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Yakama Nation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas J. Hanlon and Michael D. Murphy.
Defendants Andrew Norris Zack, Jamaal Antwan Pimms, Kevin Todd Brehm, Joshawa Max Estradaand Uriel Balentin Badillo have all pleaded guilty to charges related to this case.
