An Arizona resident has admitted to federal assault and firearms charges following an incident in which he threatened a woman with a rifle after she tried to intervene in what appeared to be a domestic violence situation.
Court documents show that on August 24, 2024, Curley Nakai Jr., 25, a member of the Navajo Nation, was involved in an event observed by Jane Doe 2. She believed Nakai was participating in a domestic violence incident involving another woman, identified as Jane Doe 1. In response, Jane Doe 2 followed the vehicle carrying Nakai to a Basha’s grocery store parking lot.
At the location, Nakai left the truck holding a rifle and directed threatening gestures toward Jane Doe 2. He pointed the weapon at her and told her to leave the area. Although Jane Doe 2 moved her vehicle some distance away within the parking lot, she did not leave entirely. During this time, Jane Doe 1 exited the vehicle and walked away.
Nakai has pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon as well as using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He faces a minimum sentence of five years and could receive up to life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison stated: "First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today."
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office led the investigation with help from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is handling prosecution.
