MAN FROM SHIPROCK, N.M., PLEADS GUILTY TO ASSAULT IN INDIAN COUNTRY RESULTING IN SERIOUS BODILY INJURY

ALBUQUERQUE – Ryan Franklin, 30, of Shiprock, N.M., pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday to a charge of assaulting a woman in Indian Country resulting in serious bodily injury.  

According Franklin’s plea agreement, he committed the offense on August 25, 2018, within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation in San Juan County, N.M.  Franklin admitted he hit the victim in the face several times with his fists.  The victim suffered extreme pain, a fractured orbital socket, and disfigurement that still requires medical attention.  Franklin is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. 

Franklin is currently in custody awaiting sentencing.  He faces up to 10 years in prison.

            The FBI investigated the case with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Navajo Police Department.   Assistant U.S. Attorney Elisa C. Dimas is prosecuting the case.