ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A disturbing case of child abuse has come to light in New Mexico, with a Navajo man pleading guilty to a federal charge. Joe Lee Haines, 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation who resides in Tinian, N.M., entered a guilty plea in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to a child abuse charge.
Haines’ plea agreement recommends a prison sentence of a year and a day followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.
The incident in question occurred on Sept. 1, 2017, when Haines, while intoxicated, accused an 11-year-old child of stealing money from his wallet. After the child fell asleep, Haines allegedly placed a rifle into the child’s mouth, accused the child of taking money and threatened to pull the trigger.
Haines was arrested on Sept. 21, 2017, on a criminal complaint charging him with child abuse. He was subsequently indicted on Oct. 11, 2017.
This case was investigated by the Gallup office of the FBI and the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle T. Nayback is prosecuting the case.
A sentencing hearing has yet to be scheduled.
The incident is a stark reminder of the importance of protecting our children from harm. As a community, we must work together to ensure that those who commit such heinous crimes are held accountable.
Haines’ guilty plea is a significant step in the right direction. However, the true test will be in the sentencing phase, when the court will determine the extent of Haines’ punishment.
Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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