A Newcomb resident has pleaded guilty to federal charges after an incident involving a firearm earlier this year.
Court documents state that on February 28, 2025, James Smiley, Jr., 56, who is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, entered a home located within the Navajo Nation and pointed a gun at three men while making threats to kill them. The altercation was reportedly unprovoked.
Smiley admitted guilt 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. He faces up to life in prison at sentencing. After his release from prison, he will be subject to supervised release for no less than five years and potentially up to life.
“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 investigation was led by the Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office with help from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
