FARMINGTON, N.M. — A man awaiting trial for the death of his infant son now faces three additional felony charges following a series of violent altercations with staff inside the San Juan County Adult Detention Center, according to court documents.
Hanon Charged With Battery On Peace Officers While In Custody
John Hanon, who was arrested in February 2026 after a high-profile search led to a grim discovery, is now facing three counts of battery upon a peace officer. Affidavits filed in Aztec Magistrate Court describe multiple incidents where Hanon allegedly attacked detention staff during routine movements and shift changes.
Hanon was already being held on several severe charges stemming from an investigation earlier this year. You can read the full details of that case here: 11-Month-Old Found Partially Buried In San Juan County Death Investigation.
March 31: Struggle During Court Transport
According to the first affidavit, the initial incident occurred on March 31 as deputies prepared Hanon for a court appearance. Staff reported that Hanon became combative as they attempted to move him from his cell. The resistance was so intense that officers were forced to handcuff Hanon and guide him through the “food slot” door to maintain control.
Once the cell door was opened, investigators say Hanon began kicking a detention sergeant multiple times. As officers attempted to escort him toward the medical unit, Hanon reportedly continued to kick backward, striking an officer’s knee approximately eight to nine times. The officer later reported significant swelling and pain from the assault.
April 7: Second Altercation During Shift Change
A second incident was reported just one week later. On April 7, detention officers attempted to place restraints on Hanon during a standard shift change. The affidavit states Hanon became combative again, wrapping his arm around a sergeant’s neck or body.
During the struggle to bring him to the ground, Hanon allegedly brushed his hand against the sergeant’s face. Investigators determined the contact was intentional and performed in a “rude, angry or insolent manner,” leading to the third battery charge.
A Pattern of Resistance
The reported combative nature in jail mirrors the behavior described by deputies during Hanon’s initial arrest in February. During that encounter, authorities had to force entry into a residence where they found Hanon hiding under blankets. In that instance, he allegedly gave false names—including “Susan”—and at one point claimed to be his own infant son to avoid identification.
Current Charges and Case Status
- Battery upon a peace officer (4th-degree felony) — Three Counts
- Child abuse resulting in death (1st-degree felony) — Pending from Feb. 2026 incident
- Tampering with evidence (2nd-degree felony) — Pending
- DWI and Possession of a Controlled Substance — Pending
Hanon remains held at the San Juan County Adult Detention Center. Arrest warrants for the new battery charges were served while he was already in custody. No new bond information has been released following these additional felony filings.
Source
This report is based on affidavits for arrest warrants filed in Aztec Magistrate Court by the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.