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Assault in Indian Country Lands New Mexico Man in Federal Prison
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A disturbing case of domestic violence in Indian Country has resulted in a harsh sentence for a New Mexico man.
Joshua Mendez, 40, of New Laguna, New Mexico, was sentenced in federal court on March 24 to three years and eight months for assault resulting in serious bodily harm and domestic assault by a habitual offender in Indian Country.
Mendez pleaded guilty to these offenses on July 22, 2021. According to the plea agreement, on March 20, 2020, Mendez assaulted Jane Doe and John Doe in Cibola County, New Mexico, on the Laguna Pueblo. During the assault at Jane Doe’s residence, Mendez pushed Jane Doe, his girlfriend at the time, and stabbed John Doe several times with a knife.
Due to the injuries from Mendez’s assault, John Doe was taken to a hospital for medical treatment. The severity of his injuries highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
In addition to his prison sentence, Mendez will be subject to three years of supervised release upon his release from prison. This extended supervision will provide an added layer of protection for the community and ensure that Mendez complies with the terms of his sentence.
Mendez’s history of violent behavior is a concerning trend that has led to previous convictions for assault of an intimate partner and battery on February 6, 2017, and again on October 17, 2017. These past convictions demonstrate a pattern of behavior that warranted a harsher sentence in this case.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case with assistance from the Laguna Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elisa C. Dimas prosecuted the case, ensuring that Mendez faced justice for his crimes.
Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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