Tony Jake Jr., Sexual Abuse of a Minor, New Mexico 2022

A 48-month prison sentence has been handed down to Tony Jake Jr., 75, for his role in the sexual abuse of a 7-year-old girl in Pine Hill, New Mexico.

The abuse occurred on May 28, 2022, when Jake approached the young girl as she played outside a church with her grandmother. He separated her from the other children and subjected her to the abuse.

The girl’s grandmother noticed she was missing and found her with Jake, who was subsequently confronted by the girl’s mother. The mother rushed her daughter to the hospital, where she underwent an examination and later a forensic interview in which she described the abuse in detail.

Jake admitted to the abuse when questioned by an FBI agent and later pleaded guilty to one count of abusive sexual contact. There is no parole in the federal system, meaning Jake will serve his full sentence without the possibility of early release.

After completing his term of imprisonment, Jake will be required to serve 5 years of supervised release and register as a sex offender, a requirement for those convicted of sex crimes in the United States.

U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, announced the sentencing today. The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations, investigated the case, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Bell handled the prosecution.

Jake’s sentence serves as a reminder that those who commit sex crimes will face severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and registration as sex offenders. The Navajo Nation and local law enforcement agencies must be commended for their tireless efforts in bringing Jake to justice.

The case is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and reporting of suspicious behavior. The girl’s grandmother and mother took swift action after noticing something was amiss, and their quick thinking likely prevented further abuse.

The community can rest assured that those who commit such heinous crimes will be held accountable and face the full weight of the law.

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