Leon J. Tafoya, Assault, New Mexico 2014

Grimy Times Exclusive: Leon J. Tafoya, a 19-year-old member and resident of Santa Clara Pueblo in New Mexico, was behind bars today after pleading guilty to federal assault charges in a shocking display of violence that left one victim seriously injured and a tribal police officer shaken.

According to sources, Tafoya was arrested on September 16, 2014, on a criminal complaint charging him with assault with a dangerous weapon, assault resulting in serious bodily injury, and aggravated assault while in Santa Clara Pueblo in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico.

On September 7, 2014, officers of the Santa Clara Pueblo Tribal Police Department responded to a call reporting an assault. Tafoya, who was 19 at the time, was arrested after stabbing another member of the Santa Clara Pueblo Tribe three times and assaulting a tribal police officer who was responding to the stabbing.

During the assault, Tafoya reportedly attempted to gain control of the officer’s service weapon while the officer was placing him under arrest. Tafoya’s actions resulted in serious bodily injury to the victim, who was stabbed multiple times.

In a stunning twist, Tafoya pleaded guilty to a felony information charging him with possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Tafoya will be sentenced within the range of five to seven years in federal prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Novaline D. Wilson is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Santa Fe office of the FBI, the Northern Pueblos Agency of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services, and the Santa Clara Pueblo Tribal Police Department. Tafoya has been in federal custody since his arrest and will remain there pending a sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.

As the investigation revealed, Tafoya’s actions had a profound impact on the community, leaving one victim seriously injured and a tribal police officer shaken. The guilty plea serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violent crime and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

The case is a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies working together to bring justice to the victims and their families. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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