Begay faces up to year in jail

By Natasha Kaye Johnson
Diné Bureau

GALLUP — Council delegate Omer Begay Jr. could face a year in jail, or a $5,000 fine if convicted of a battery charge based on allegations that he punched his wife in the face several times.

Begay may also be able to remain in his elected position.

According to Roger Shirley, Chief Prosecutor for the Navajo Nation, Begay's position as council delegate can only be weighed into the case if there is a request submitted into the office.

"It can be done civilly or by the speaker," said Shirley.

If a request is not made, Begay's case would be weighed the same as an individual who does not hold an elected position. As of Thursday afternoon, no request had been submitted. Begay's court date is expected to be set for early next week. Sararesa Begay, public information officer for the Office of the Speaker, said Tuesday that there is no administrative action being taken against Begay.

Begay was convicted of alcohol possession and battery Saturday evening and pleaded no contest on Monday to the alcohol charge. He was given a $50 fine, which he paid the same day.