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Assault Sentencing in New Mexico Prison
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A federal court in New Mexico sentenced Jacob Merkel, 23, to one year and three months in prison, with nine months consecutive to his prior sentence of 13 years and 10 months for robbery and discharge of a firearm. Merkel pleaded guilty to assault upon a person assisting federal officers involving physical contact.
The incident occurred on February 17, 2021, at the Luna County Corrections facility. Co-defendant Johnny Black, 36, became angry with corrections staff and started arguing with them. When staff attempted to escort him out of the pod, Black struck an officer, starting an altercation that other inmates joined. Merkel joined the altercation and punched another officer in the face.
According to the plea agreement, Merkel’s actions led to a physical confrontation with the officer, resulting in Merkel’s guilty plea to assault upon a person assisting federal officers involving physical contact. The U.S. Marshals Service and Luna County Corrections Officers investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
Merkel’s prior sentence for robbery and discharge of a firearm will run concurrent with his new sentence, resulting in a total of 16 years and nine months in federal prison. The sentences were handed down on May 16.
The case highlights the dangers faced by corrections officers and the need for accountability in such incidents. The federal government continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of its employees and the public.
Fellow co-defendant Victor Sanchez, 25, received a similar sentence of one year and nine months in prison, with 12 months to run consecutive to his prior eight-year sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Sanchez pleaded guilty on February 9 to assault upon a person assisting federal officers involving physical contact.
Co-defendants Johnny Black and Henry Felix are awaiting sentencing, which has not been scheduled. Their cases are a reminder that justice is being served in New Mexico’s federal courts, and those who commit crimes will face the consequences.
With this sentencing, Merkel and Sanchez have acknowledged their roles in the assault on corrections officers and have been held accountable for their actions. The community can rest assured that the federal government is committed to protecting its employees and upholding the law.
Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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