Laurice Montoya, Voluntary Manslaughter, New Mexico 2022

Laurice Montoya, 38, is facing serious consequences for her role in a deadly altercation on the Jicarilla Apache Reservation.

On January 19, 2022, an argument between Montoya and her victim, John Doe, turned deadly. The altercation took place in Montoya’s home, where she struck Doe on the head with a snow shovel, causing him to fall and suffer a seizure.

According to prosecutors, Montoya refused to seek help for Doe, despite his severe injuries. It wasn’t until a friend arrived at the residence about four hours later that emergency services were called. Doe was transported to the San Juan Regional Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Doctors found that Doe had sustained a traumatic brain injury, a rib fracture, severe bruising on his upper body, and two cuts on his scalp. The incident has left many questions unanswered, but one thing is clear: Montoya’s actions have had devastating consequences.

By the terms of her plea agreement, Montoya could face up to 15 years in prison followed by up to 3 years of supervised release. The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated the case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police and the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Robert James Booth II is prosecuting the case.

The Jicarilla Apache Reservation has been left to pick up the pieces in the wake of this tragic event. As the community comes to terms with the loss of a loved one, many are left wondering how such a senseless act of violence could occur.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help when needed. While justice may be served, it can never bring back the life lost in this senseless act of violence.

Montoya will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. As the community mourns the loss of John Doe, they can take some comfort in knowing that those responsible will be held accountable for their actions.

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