NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – New charges have been filed against a man police say sexually assaulted and killed Native American men in New Mexico over the last several years. Labar Tsethlikai, 51, is facing an 11-count federal indictment that could land him in jail for years, or even get him the death penalty.
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“You’ll see a number of them carry with them life sentences, some of them carry potential death sentences,” said Alexander Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico. “The allegations span several years, with about six different named victims.”
Those charges include kidnapping resulting in death, first-degree murder, sexual assault, and abuse, among other charges. The indictment mentions six victims, which Uballez said were all Native American. Uballez said Tsethlikai allegedly preyed on vulnerable people, those who were homeless, suffering from addiction, or both.
“There’s probably more,” Uballez said.
Uballez said his office worked with city, county, and state departments to help bring these charges forward- and that the Justice Department Missing or Murdered Indigenous People program has been a useful tool in the case against Tsethlikai. “We depend on our partners, and we work best when we work together,” Uballez explained.
Now, his office is looking to the public for tips to help more victims. Investigators believe Tsethlikai drove a brownish-gold Chevy Silverado to help commit the alleged crimes.
According to authorities, he was also known to be a Zuni jewelry artist and worked in the Native American jewelry industry. “We could use your help,” Uballez added.
Tsethlikai will remain in custody until trial.
