MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – Derek Michael James, a 41-year-old resident of Durant, Oklahoma, has pleaded guilty to felony assault charges. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that James admitted guilt to one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
According to the indictment, on January 27, 2025, James attacked the victim using a dangerous weapon with the intention of causing bodily harm. The incident took place in Bryan County within the Choctaw Nation Reservation’s boundaries.
The investigation leading to this charge was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department. The plea was accepted by U.S. Magistrate Judge Jason A. Robertson in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
A presentence investigation report will be completed before sentencing. A U.S. District Court Judge will determine James’ sentence based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Until then, James will remain under the custody of the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan E. Soverly and Patrick M. Flanigan are representing the United States in this case.
