A man from Vanderwagen, New Mexico, has been sentenced to over seven years in federal prison for using a firearm during an assault on the Navajo Nation. Perris Jeremiah Arthur, 36, received an 85-month sentence after pleading guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and to carrying and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
Court documents show that on May 1, 2023, Arthur confronted the victim at the victim’s home. After starting a physical fight, Arthur retrieved a .22 caliber rifle from his ATV and fired two shots into the residence. He then pointed the weapon directly at the victim and threatened serious harm. The victim was not injured in the incident.
Arthur will also serve three years of supervised release after completing his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.”
The case was investigated by the Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office with support from both the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting.
