First trial set for murder, rape of Navajo woman

Tuesday, August 28, 2007  

A 24-year-old man is set to go to trial in January 2008 for the rape and murder of Nicole Leigh Redhorse, a Navajo woman.

Derrick Nelson Begaye pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and felony sexual assault. Two others -- Carlton Lee Yazzie and Harold Nakai -- are awaiting arraignment on the same charges.

Police said the three men gave Redhorse, 34, so much alcohol that she passed out. She was found dead in a hotel room in Durango, Colorado.

Nakai had an on-and-off-again relationship with Redhorse, police said.

Get the Story:
Trial set for one of accused men in Redhorse murder (The Farmington Daily Times 8/28)

Amnesty International Report:
Full Report | Press Release

Online Discussion:
Violence against Native American and Alaska Native Women (April 24, 2007)

Relevant Links:
Join Voices with Native American and Alaska Native Women and Take Action to Stop the Violence - http://www.amnestyusa.org/maze

Related Stories:
Men charged for rape, murder of Navajo woman (08/16)
Vigil in Colorado calls attention to domestic violence (8/14)