Who is Harlan Joe and what is he charged with?

Harlan Joe, a Navajo Nation member from Shiprock, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of a woman found on the reservation.

Where did the incident involving Harlan Joe occur?

The incident occurred outside a residence in Shiprock, a community on the Navajo Nation in northwestern New Mexico.

What led to the murder charge against Harlan Joe?

The charge follows the discovery of a woman with obvious signs of abuse and trauma, after Joe allegedly spent a day drinking.

Home / Crime and Justice / Navajo Nation Man Charged in Woman's Brutal Death

Navajo Nation Man Charged in Woman's Brutal Death

20 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Harlan Joe faces second-degree murder charges.
Victim found with obvious signs of abuse and trauma.
Alleged murder followed a day of drinking.

Navajo Nation Man Charged in Woman's Brutal Death

A man from Shiprock, identified as Harlan Joe, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, has been formally charged with second-degree murder. The charges stem from the death of a woman discovered outside a residence in northwestern New Mexico on November 15. Federal prosecutors announced the arrest following the initial police response to the scene.

Upon arrival, officers observed that the unidentified woman displayed obvious signs of abuse and trauma. During an interview with investigators, Joe reportedly admitted to knowing his actions were wrong, stating that the alleged murder occurred after a day of drinking. He remains in federal custody awaiting a trial that has yet to be scheduled.

The investigation into the incident was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Farmington Resident Agency, with significant assistance provided by the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. If convicted, Joe could face a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.