Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Joey Anthony Andy, 44, has been sentenced to 63 months in prison for assault with a dangerous weapon. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke also imposed three years of supervised release following Andy’s conviction on May 15, 2024.
Court documents revealed that on April 4, 2023, the victim, an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, was leaving Noah’s Ark Homeless Shelter in Wapato, Washington. Andy confronted the victim over a Bluetooth speaker he believed was stolen by the victim. An altercation ensued where Andy used a knife to attack the victim, causing a four-inch laceration to the head that required fourteen staples.
The victim sought help at Noah’s Ark Shelter where employees provided first aid and contacted police. Wapato Police found Andy nearby and apprehended him after a brief chase.
At sentencing, MMIP AUSA Black Horse argued for a maximum sentence to deter future crimes and protect public safety. She emphasized the vulnerability of individuals frequenting Noah’s Ark Shelter and how such incidents could deter them from seeking necessary services.
“Mr. Andy attacked his victim without provocation or justification,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. He credited law enforcement efforts for ensuring justice was served.
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program aimed at addressing related cases through collaboration among various partners.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation with prosecution by Assistant United States Attorneys Bree R. Black Horse and Todd Swensen.
