A Lummi Nation member received a 51-month prison sentence in a U.S. District Court in Seattle for assault by strangulation. Joseph Michael Quincy Jefferson, aged 36, was convicted after a seven-day jury trial in January 2025. U.S. District Judge Lauren King highlighted Jefferson's history of domestic violence, stating, "your abuse of others has become a pattern… You return to strangulation again and again."
Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller emphasized the significance of this case for tribal communities. "Studies reveal that being a victim of strangulation significantly increases the risk the victim will be killed at the hands of their abuser. Holding Mr. Jefferson accountable now is the best way to protect future victims," Miller stated.
The assault took place on April 8, 2023, when Jefferson attacked his live-in partner. He punched, pushed, and strangled her, leading to her losing consciousness twice. In distress, she fled their home, seeking help from a friend and a neighbor. The victim reported the incident to the Lummi Nation Police Department and received medical attention at a hospital for a broken nose and other injuries.
During the trial, Jefferson claimed self-defense, while the victim downplayed his actions in her testimony.
Assistant United States Attorney Celia Lee, seeking a 57-month sentence, pointed out Jefferson’s continued violent behavior despite previous convictions. Lee remarked, “Given Jefferson’s history, his conduct, and his behavior while under supervision, the Court is frankly left with no viable alternatives to a lengthy term of imprisonment. Thus, a significant custodial sentence at this juncture is appropriate, just, and would promote respect for the law. The government certainly hopes that such a sentence would also provide specific deterrence to Jefferson who has thus far not been dissuaded from violence by his prior terms of incarceration for domestic violence.”
Jefferson has been held in custody since October 2024 after violating bond conditions by contacting the victim. The Lummi Nation Police Department and the FBI conducted the investigation, and Assistant United States Attorney Celia Lee, serving as a Tribal Liaison, prosecuted the case. Ensuring public safety on tribal lands remains a key duty of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Washington.