Man Pleads Guilty in Case Highlighting Native American Violence Crisis

Navajo Woman’s Disappearance Case Sees Plea Deal in Robbery Charge

The ongoing case of a missing Navajo woman, which has highlighted the broader issue of violence against Native American communities, took a new turn as a man involved in her disappearance admitted to robbery. Preston Henry Tolth, who has been detained since 2023, appeared in a Phoenix federal court where he pleaded guilty to the charges.

As part of a plea agreement with prosecutors, Tolth will not face additional incarceration if the court approves the terms. According to the prosecution, Tolth attacked Ella Mae Begay, took her Ford F-150 truck, and crossed state borders. He confessed to physically assaulting Begay, abandoning her roadside, and trading her vehicle for cash and narcotics.

This incident has significantly contributed to raising awareness about the frequent violence against Native individuals. It has galvanized tribal leaders and advocates to demand enhanced law enforcement support and cross-jurisdictional cooperation for investigative efforts.

The case has led to marches, discussions, and congressional inquiries. Federal authorities have increased the number of investigators and prosecutors at strategic locations across the U.S. to address these cases more effectively.

Despite these efforts, Begay remains missing, leaving her family in distress.

Ella Mae Begay, a master rug weaver from Sweetwater, Arizona, lived near the Four Corners Monument on the Navajo Nation. Her son, Gerald Begay, recalled her kindness and willingness to help others, even strangers. He listened to the court proceedings via phone from Denver, expressing disappointment with the plea deal, which he described as a “slap on the wrist.” He criticized law enforcement for errors during interrogations that he believes denied his family justice.

Gerald Begay urged authorities to locate his mother’s remains, stating, “She belongs in the community where she resided. If I could bring my mother home, I could at least have some closure.”

Timothy Courchaine, the interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona, declined to comment, as did Tolth’s attorneys.

Tolth initially pleaded not guilty to assault and carjacking charges, which could lead to lengthy sentences. However, a federal appeals court in August 2025 found his confession inadmissible due to mishandling during interrogation.

The sentencing hearing for Tolth is set for April 9 in Phoenix.