ALBUQUERQUE. – Jamieson C. Mason, 28, of Upper Fruitland, N.M., and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, waived his preliminary hearing in federal court Oct. 20 on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Mason will remain in custody pending trial.

According to a criminal complaint, on Oct. 8, Mason allegedly was present at a residence for a birthday party, remaining mostly outside, while others were inside preparing food. Mason allegedly entered the residence, approached the victim, who was sitting on a couch, pushed her torso forward and stabbed her in the back multiple times. Mason then reportedly fled.

The assault took place on the Navajo Nation. The victim, who is also an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, required treatment for her wounds at San Juan Regional Medical Center.

If convicted, Mason faces up to 10 years in prison for each charge. A criminal complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The Farmington Office of the FBI and the Navajo Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander F. Flores is prosecuting the case.