Yakima, WA – In a shocking display of violence, 43-year-old Joey Anthony Andy has been found guilty of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, a crime that has plagued the Yakama Nation for far too long.
According to officials, on April 4, 2023, Andy confronted a victim, an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, outside Noah’s Ark Homeless Shelter in Wapato, Washington. The victim had simply been leaving the shelter when Andy, fueled by a misguided sense of justice, pulled out a knife and swung at the victim’s head, leaving a four-inch laceration that required 14 staples to close.
The victim, who was lucky to escape with their life, ran back to the shelter for help and was treated by employees before being taken to the hospital. Wapato Police later apprehended Andy, who attempted to flee the scene but was caught and taken into custody without incident.
The evidence presented at trial made it clear that Andy’s actions were a serious threat to the safety and well-being of the Yakama Nation community. “Prosecuting violent crime occurring on Tribal land in the Eastern District of Washington is a major priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref. “Mr. Andy carried out a violent attack in broad daylight that left his victim with a serious injury.”
The conviction is a significant victory for the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, which have made a commitment to addressing the crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous People. “Violent assaults on Native American land are key drivers of this ongoing crisis,” said Waldref. “My office remains committed to prosecuting these and other serious crimes, such as domestic violence, drug trafficking, child exploitation, and sexual violence.”
Andy is set to be sentenced on September 17, 2024, and faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have vowed to continue investigating and prosecuting cases like this one, which highlights the importance of addressing the systemic issues that contribute to the crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous People.
The conviction is a testament to the bravery of the victim, who came forward to share their story and seek justice. It is also a reminder that no one is above the law, and those who commit crimes will be held accountable for their actions.
United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke presided over the trial, which was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Todd Swensen and Bree R. Black Horse. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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