A Tohatchi man has pleaded guilty to federal charges after assaulting and strangling a woman during an argument in Zuni, New Mexico. According to court records, Victor Badonie, 33, who is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, attacked Jane Doe at her home on March 5 and 6, 2024. The assault resulted in serious injuries that required hospitalization.
Badonie admitted guilt to felony charges of assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault by strangulation. He faces up to 20 years in prison at sentencing. Upon release, he will be subject to up to three years of supervised release and must pay restitution for costs related to his actions.
“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 investigation was conducted by the Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office with support from the Zuni Pueblo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Zach Jones is prosecuting the case.
