Domestic violence incident leads to drug arrest

On Thursday, 9-27-18 just before 10:00 p.m., Price City Police Officers were dispatched to a southwest Price residence because of a report of ongoing domestic violence assault. Upon arrival and investigation of the scene, Officer Mike Montoya arrested Elijah Blue Kekuewa, DOB 4-11-80, of Price, for 3rd degree felony Aggravated Assault, misdemeanor charges Disorderly Conduct, and Criminal Mischief, all Domestic Violence related. Mr. Kekuewa was also charged with misdemeanor offenses of Intoxication, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of over one Ounce of Marijuana. The Carbon County Attorney’s Office will review the report to determine the appropriate formal charges.
Investigation revealed the victim allegedly disclosed that she was strangled during the altercation. Mr. Kekuewa sustained minor injury when the victim hit him with an object in the head, trying to defend herself. As the investigation unfolded, the victim’s statement was allegedly corroborated by eyewitnesses. Officers on scene also documented forensic evidence that supported the victim statement, by way of victim and suspect injuries, and by scene condition.
During the investigation, officers allegedly observed drug items in plain view, including slightly over 2 ounces of marijuana.
According to court records, Mr. Kekuewa has criminal history from Alaska, California, New York, and Oregon.