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NM Woman Caught Burglarizing Cop’s Home, Now Faces 10 Years in Federal Prison
ALBUQUERQUE, NM – In a shocking turn of events, 37-year-old Navajo woman Lisa Benally has pleaded guilty to federal firearms and burglary charges stemming from a botched break-in at a local officer’s residence.
According to court documents, Benally and her co-defendant Loren Lloyd Wauneka, also a Navajo Nation member, were arrested on January 29, 2016, for allegedly burglarizing the officer’s home on the Navajo Indian Reservation in McKinley County, NM. The duo was caught red-handed by law enforcement officers as they were stealing valuables from the residence.
During the arrest, officers seized a television, jewelry, bags, computer laptops, and two firearms belonging to the officer. Benally and Wauneka were subsequently indicted on February 24, 2016, on charges of being felons in possession of firearms and ammunition, possession of stolen firearms, and aggravated burglary.
Benally, who has a history of convictions including escape, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of dangerous drugs, admitted to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. She also admitted to entering the residence with the intent to commit theft and stealing two firearms and ammunition, making her armed during the burglary.
Wauneka, who has a previous conviction for unlawful discharge of a firearm and aggravated driving while intoxicated, also pleaded guilty to the same charges. Both defendants face a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. Sentencing hearings have yet to be scheduled.
The case was investigated by the Crownpoint office of the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety, the McKinley County Sheriff’s Office, and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Murphy is prosecuting the case.
The incident highlights the growing concern of crime on the Navajo Indian Reservation. As the community continues to grapple with the issue, residents are left wondering what led to Benally and Wauneka’s downfall.
The case serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly minor crimes can have severe consequences. As Benally and Wauneka await their sentencing, they are left to ponder the impact of their actions on their community and the justice system at large.
Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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