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Press Release

U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Announce Criminal Charges in Fruitland Carjacking

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington man was charged by indictment for carjacking incident in 2022 in Fruitland, New Mexico.

Myles Cordelle Dan Padilla, 32, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge and will remain in custody pending trial, which is set for November 12, 2024.

According to the indictment, on April 10, 2022, Padilla took a motor vehicle from John Doe by force. During the incident, Padilla discharged a firearm. Padilla is prohibited by federal law from handling or possessing firearms or ammunition due to his previous felony convictions, which include breaking and entering, battery upon a peace officer, and battery against a household member.

If convicted of the current charges, Padilla faces not less than 10 years and up to life in prison.

U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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Updated September 20, 2024

Topic
Indian Country Law and Justice
Press Release Number: 24-306