A Dulce resident is facing federal charges following an alleged assault incident that left the victim with serious injuries. According to court documents, officers responded to a reported altercation on Veneno Street in Dulce on February 19, 2024. Upon arrival, they encountered Chalmers Dedios, aged 32, and the victim. The victim appeared distressed and was dressed in heavy clothing despite warm weather conditions.
After Dedios was detained on unrelated charges, the victim disclosed multiple assaults by Dedios, including incidents of strangulation occurring on February 10 and 14. The victim was subsequently hospitalized at San Juan Regional Medical Center with significant injuries, including an active brain bleed.
During an interview following the arrest, Dedios confessed to strangling the victim. Both Dedios and the victim are members of the Jicarilla Apache Nation Indian Tribe.
Dedios remains in custody awaiting trial; a date has not yet been set. If convicted of these charges, he could face up to ten years in prison.
The announcement came from U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez. The investigation was conducted by the Jicarilla Apache Police Department with Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Pecoraro handling prosecution duties.
It is important to note that a criminal complaint serves as an allegation only; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.