ALBUQUERQUE – A night of drunken rage in Shiprock, New Mexico, landed 22-year-old Jerome Weaver a three-year probationary sentence, but no prison time, after he terrorized two adults with a loaded handgun. The incident, which unfolded July 9, 2024, left victims injured and a minor traumatized, culminating in Weaver’s arrest and now, a federal conviction.
According to court documents, Weaver, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, unleashed a violent attack at a private residence. Fueled by intoxication, he choked one victim before escalating the assault by pressing a handgun – equipped with a laser sight – against their head. The weapon was then turned on a second adult present at the scene. The chilling ordeal was witnessed by a child, who bravely dialed 911, bringing law enforcement to the location.
When officers from the Navajo Police Department arrived, they found the victims bearing visible injuries. Weaver, however, didn’t resist. He surrendered the firearm without incident. The quick response prevented what could have been a far more tragic outcome. Despite the severity of the actions, federal sentencing guidelines and plea agreements resulted in a probationary sentence, a point that will undoubtedly raise questions about justice in this case.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, announced the sentencing today. While Weaver avoids incarceration, he will be subject to three years of supervised release following the completion of his probation period. Any violation of those terms could land him behind bars.
The investigation was spearheaded by the Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, with crucial assistance from the Navajo Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany DuChaussee skillfully prosecuted the case, navigating the complexities of federal law and tribal jurisdiction.
This case underscores the ongoing challenges of violence within the Navajo Nation and the federal government’s role in addressing it. While Weaver will remain free under supervision, the victims will undoubtedly carry the scars of this encounter for years to come. The Grimy Times will continue to monitor this case and report on any further developments.
RELATED: Shiprock Man Sentenced for Armed Assault
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Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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