Shiprock Man Charged Federally After November Assault Leaves Victim Hospitalized

A Shiprock man, identified as Darrell Joe Ben Jr., faces a federal charge of assault resulting in serious bodily injury for an attack that occurred on November 18. Federal court documents say the victim was hospitalized with serious injuries following the incident, and multiple witnesses contacted Navajo Police. Ben was arrested the next day, booked into the San Juan County Detention Center, and on November 21 was released into federal custody where he will remain until trial.

According to charging documents, Ben admitted to drinking heavily throughout the day but did not provide a clear account of how the victim was injured. The Federal Bureau of Investigation Farmington Resident Agency led the investigation with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Teleky is prosecuting the case. If convicted on the federal charge, Ben faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

The filing of a federal charge in this case has local implications. Shiprock sits within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation and within San Juan County. The involvement of federal investigators and tribal law enforcement reflects established mechanisms for handling violent crimes that cross jurisdictional lines or rise to a level that triggers federal prosecution. For local residents, the case is a reminder that serious violent incidents will often bring multiple agencies together to investigate, prosecute, and provide victim services.

Community leaders and service providers face practical concerns as the case moves through federal court. The victim required hospitalization, placing immediate demands on medical and support services. The transfer of a detainee from county custody to federal custody can affect timelines for court appearances and for coordination with local victim advocates. The prospect of a federal trial may also draw attention from neighboring communities and tribal authorities, underscoring the need for clear communication from law enforcement about safety and legal processes.

The case remains pending in federal court. Residents seeking information about court dates or victim resources can contact local law enforcement or the San Juan County Detention Center for official guidance.