24-Year-Old Mescalero Man Charged with Assault and Strangulation

ALBUQUERQUE – The grim tale of Philman Sam Pike, a 24-year-old Mescalero Apache man, has gripped the local community as federal prosecutors have filed serious charges against him. Pike stands accused of a violent assault and attempted strangulation that left a woman with life-threatening injuries.

On March 13, 2025, officers from the Bureau of Indian Affairs were called to a residence on the Mescalero Apache Reservation in response to a harrowing 911 call. Upon arrival, they discovered the victim grappling with severe injuries—fractured orbital bone, widespread swelling, and numerous bruises—all indicative of repeated physical assault and strangulation.

It was later revealed that over a two-day span, Pike is alleged to have physically battered and strangled the woman multiple times, pushing her close to unconsciousness. The victim received immediate medical attention at the scene before being rushed to the hospital for further care. Medical professionals confirmed her injuries were significant, with clear evidence of strangulation.

Without incident, officers tracked down Pike hiding in a nearby residence and made the arrest. He now faces charges of assault by strangling or suffocating and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Pike is currently in custody, awaiting trial, which has yet to be scheduled. If found guilty on the current charges, he could face up to 10 years in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison confirmed the charges against Pike during a press conference today. The Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation into this case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Jackson K. Dering V handling the prosecution. It’s important to note that a criminal complaint is merely an allegation. Pike is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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