PHOENIX – Earlier this week, Mark Benally, Jr., 29, of Indian Wells, Ariz., a member of the Navajo Nation, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge David G. Campbell to 51 months in prison. Benally previously pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon.
The investigation revealed that on May 17, 2015, Benally entered the home of his elderly female victim, also a member of the Navajo Nation, near Dilkon, Ariz. There, he struck her on the face, neck, and throat, causing visible injuries. The assault occurred on the Navajo Nation Reservation. Benally’s sentence was increased because his elderly victim was particularly vulnerable.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Navajo Nation Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Alexander W. Samuels and Sharon K. Sexton, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.