A Two Grey Hills man, James Smiley Jr., was sentenced on Mar. 30 to eight and a half years in prison for brandishing and discharging a firearm while threatening several people.
The case highlights the serious consequences of violent crimes involving firearms, especially those occurring within tribal lands. There is no parole in the federal system, meaning Smiley will serve his full sentence.
According to court records, on February 28, 2025, Smiley, who is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, unlawfully entered a residence located within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation. He pointed a firearm at three individuals without provocation, threatened to kill them, and fired into the ceiling during the incident.
Smiley pleaded guilty 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. After serving his prison term, he will be subject to three years of supervised release.
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, announced the sentencing. The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI's Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with help from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting.
