Rick John Morales, Jr., a 32-year-old man from Fort Peck Indian Reservation, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury, aiding and abetting in a violent attack on November 19, 2019, in Wolf Point, Montana.
According to court documents, Morales aided and abetted codefendant Harry B. Azure in assaulting the victim, identified as [redacted], who suffered severe head injuries. The victim was initially treated at a Wolf Point hospital and later flown to Billings due to the severity of his injuries.
Assisting in the investigation were the FBI and Fort Peck Tribal Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy A. Johnson is prosecuting the case.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided over the case. Morales was detained pending further proceedings and sentencing.
The government alleged that Morales aided and abetted codefendant Harry B. Azure in the assault. Azure has also pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury and is pending sentencing.
Morales faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Sentencing is set for March 24, 2022.
The case highlights the importance of community safety and the need for accountability in cases of violent crime.
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Key Facts
- State: Montana
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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