PHOENIX, Ariz. – A brutal crime that shook the Navajo Nation has finally come to an end with a sentencing that will keep the perpetrator behind bars for three decades. On February 6, 2017, Al Shonnie Ben, a 40-year-old resident of Tuba City, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Douglas L. Rayes to 30 years’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release.
The case against Ben began on September 7, 2014, when he, using a knife, kidnapped and assaulted three victims, all members of the Navajo Nation. The violent attack resulted in serious and substantial bodily injuries to the respective victims.
After a thorough investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety worked together to bring Ben to justice. The prosecution of this case was handled by Dimitra H. Sampson, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
The investigation revealed the shocking details of Ben’s crimes, which included the use of a knife in the kidnapping and assault of the three victims. The victims, all members of the Navajo Nation, suffered serious and substantial bodily injuries as a result of the attack.
Beneath the surface of this case lies a deeper issue of violence and abuse within the Navajo Nation. While the sentencing of Ben is a step towards justice, it also serves as a reminder of the need for continued efforts to address this issue and support the victims and their families.
Ben’s sentencing brings closure to this case, but it also shines a light on the importance of community vigilance and reporting of crimes. The Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation worked tirelessly to investigate and prosecute this case, and their efforts have brought justice to the victims and their families.
The sentencing of Al Shonnie Ben is a significant victory in the fight against violent crime. It serves as a reminder that those who commit such heinous crimes will be held accountable for their actions.
Mandatory Facts:
Defendant: Al Shonnie Ben
Criminal Charges: Kidnapping
City and State: Tuba City, Ariz.
Crime Date: September 7, 2014
Sentence: 30 years’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release
Case Number: CR-15-8028-PCT-DLR
Release Number: 2017-009_Ben
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- James W. Clark, Making a Threatening Interstate Communication, Arizona 2021 · Washington
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- Anthony William Delgado, Sledgehammer Manslaughter, Arizona 2023 · Colorado
Key Facts
- State: Arizona
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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