Phillip Lahi, Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, New Mexico 2021

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Phillip Lahi, Sr., a 70-year-old enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, made an initial appearance in federal court today facing charges of aggravated sexual abuse of a child in Indian Country.

Lahi will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for May 3.

According to a criminal complaint, Lahi allegedly engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual conduct with the victim, identified as Jane Doe, since she was five or six years old. Lahi’s alleged conduct included exposing himself to the child, who is an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, and performing sexual acts in front of her. In October of 2021, when Jane Doe was nine years old, Lahi allegedly forcibly engaged in sex with her.

Lahi allegedly committed the offenses on the Pueblo of Zuni. The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany DuChaussee is prosecuting the case.

A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Lahi faces a minimum of 30 years and up to life in prison.

The alleged abuse of Jane Doe by Phillip Lahi, Sr. has sent shockwaves through the Zuni Pueblo community. The case highlights the importance of protecting vulnerable children from predators like Lahi.

The investigation and prosecution of this case demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes.

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