GPD: Four NCI workers in custody
Four Na Nihzhoozhi Center Inc. detox workers face charges of larceny, conspiracy, and tampering with evidence for allegedly stealing nearly $12,000 from a man who was dropped off there by Zuni Police Department officers May 9.
Arrest warrants were issued for James Keyanna, Jed Shebala, Tierra Davis and Charlene Sam May 31, and all four were taken into custody at the McKinley County Adult Detention Center.
According to Gallup Police Department reports, Brock Zuber arrived at NCI after 8 pm on May 9, and blew a 0.00 into the breath test machine. Since he was alcohol-free, Zuber was allowed to leave the premises.
But, according to video surveillance evidence, four detox employees had eyes on Zuber’s cash and hatched a plan to confiscate the greenbacks from the man who had seemingly lost his way. Zuber’s father told investigators that he was concerned about his son, and had kept in touch with local police “in reference to checking on his wellbeing,” the report states. Zuber, 52, had reportedly cleared out his bank account of cash and abruptly left his home in the Durango, Colo. area.
The father picked Zuber up in mid-May and contacted police when he noticed that his son’s money was missing. After retracing Zuber’s footsteps during his two-week odyssey, GPD Det. Lt. Rosanne Morrissette reviewed NCI video footage, which revealed some questionable activities carried out by the four workers.
Zuber left NCI at about 8:44 pm on May 9, heading out the west exit. Shortly afterwards, video footage show NCI employees exiting the building in pairs, just minutes apart.
Davis, 30 reportedly told investigators she headed after Zuber to check on his wellbeing. It turns out Zuber was resting on hill between NCI and Metro Dispatch. And Sam ,41, who left the building with Davis, denied any involvement in the crime.
However, Keyanna, 24, gave up the goods on his coworkers, saying all three were involved with the theft.
While being interviewed by police investigators, Keyanna was overcome with emotion, saying “it felt like I took from a charity.”
No weapons were used during the confrontation. He told police that he commanded Zuber to “give him the bag.” Zuber gave up the cash without protest.
Morrissette said that Shebala, 35, confessed to the crime. His interview with investigators wasn’t immediately available. The group allegedly split the money four ways, but exact amounts weren’t listed in reports.
Kayenna and Shebala were released from jail on bond. Sam and Davis remain in custody as of June 1, each on a $10,000 bond.
Dr. Kevin Foley, who manages NCI, was unavailable when reached by phone for comment on deadline. The employment status of the workers is unknown at this time.
By Babette Herrmann
Sun Editor