ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico – A horrific crime shook the community of Navajo, New Mexico, when a two-year-old child lost their life in a tragic incident. In a shocking turn of events, the perpetrator of this heinous crime has pleaded guilty to a federal charge.
Mervin Ervin Charley, 33, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation who resides in Navajo, New Mexico, pleaded guilty this morning to a voluntary manslaughter charge. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Charley will be sentenced to ten years in federal prison followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.
The crime occurred on May 30, 2013, when Charley placed the victim in a situation that endangered the victim and resulted in the victim’s death. Charley was arrested on January 21, 2014, based on an indictment charging him with second degree murder and child abuse resulting in death.
Today, Charley entered a guilty plea to a felony information charging him with voluntary manslaughter, and admitted killing the victim in the heat of passion on May 30, 2013. Charley has been in federal custody since his arrest and remains detained pending his sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.
This case was investigated by the Gallup office of the FBI and the Crownpoint office of the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle T. Nayback.
Charley’s guilty plea marks a significant development in this case, bringing closure to the victim’s family and the community. The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of prioritizing child safety and well-being.
Defendant: Mervin Ervin Charley
Criminal Charges: Voluntary Manslaughter
City and State: Navajo, New Mexico
Exact Date: May 30, 2013 (crime date), January 21, 2014 (arrest date)
Sentence or Outcome: Charley will be sentenced to 10 years in federal prison followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court
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Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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