RSS FeedGRANTS - On the afternoon of July 27, the members the Navajo Nation Human Rights Commission visited with Grants Mayor Joe Murrietta and Detective Sgt. John Casteneda regarding the case of Shawn Longoria.
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The letter opened with the review of public hearing which took place a week prior at the city hall.
“Sadly, however, it is apparent that racial discrimination toward Navajo people continues to remain prevalent in many of the border towns surrounding the Navajo Nation. . . the ONNHRC is compelled to present our observations and findings regarding the recent beatings of Navajo transients within your community.”
Det. Casteneda, who spoke on behalf of the department's chief, said that approximately 85 percent of the case rested in the District Attorney's hands. The other percentage was waiting on DNA and other forensic evidence from Santa Fe laboratories, expected to arrive within a week. Suspects remain in the 'sights' of the department, Casteneda said. He also said obtaining a sketch artist for suspects would not be a problem.
Reports from the commission indicated some of the transients have made the journey home and intended living a different lifestyle.
Amos Slim has been moved to a rehabilitation center in Farmington and with support of his brother has made a significant improvement. He had been severely beaten during the June attacks and was in critical condition in an Albuquerque hospital before being released.
Talks were made of the commission's assistance in the matter of obtaining depositions from each of the victims. All parties agreed that a deposition would be the most accurate route in preserving testimony.
While light begins to show at the end of the tunnel and favorable relations advancing, the commission called upon the powers of the city officials to expedite justice.
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