A man from Gallup, New Mexico, has been charged with federal assault after allegedly attacking another adult inside a vehicle, resulting in significant facial injuries.
Court documents state that Dennison Billy, Jr., 35, a member of the Navajo Nation, is accused of assaulting the victim on December 31, 2025. The incident reportedly took place while the victim was driving and Billy was in the passenger seat. Responding officers found Billy intoxicated in the vehicle and the victim nearby with visible blood and several injuries, including trauma to the face, bruising, and a swollen finger. Blood and hair were also observed inside the car. The victim was taken to a hospital for treatment.
According to reports from the victim, Billy had been drinking alcohol and became argumentative before striking them multiple times. The attack allegedly caused a possible loss of consciousness. Medical evaluation determined that the victim suffered serious injuries such as a fractured orbital wall and fractured nasal bones. Billy told law enforcement he had consumed large amounts of alcohol, claimed he blacked out, and said he did not remember what happened.
Billy faces charges of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. He will remain in custody until trial. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison.
"First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today."
The case is being investigated by the Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office with support from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is handling prosecution.
"An indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law."
