Lachoneus

In the Book of Mormon, Lachoneus (/ləˈkoʊniəs/ lə-KOH-nee-əs) is a chief judge of the Nephites around the time of the birth of Christ, or the 92nd year of the reign of the judges. His reign starts at a date unknown but not earlier than the time of the assassination of chief judge Cezoram (3 Nephi 1:1).

No record of his life prior to his judgeship exists. During his tenure, Giddianhi, leader of the band of Gadianton robbers at the time, sent Lachoneus a letter demanding that the Nephites surrender or be destroyed. Lachoneus rejected the demands and began preparations for war. He commanded his people to gather together in one place and there build fortifications against the robbers, appointed captains including Gidgiddoni, "great commander all the armies of the Nephites." Both Lachoneus and Gidgiddoni were great prophets, and both preached repentance to the Nephites (3 Nephi 3). The people accepted the leadership and counsel of these two great prophet-leaders, and the Nephites were eventually victorious (3 Nephi 6:6).

Lachoneus died about AD 30 and was succeeded by his son, also named Lachoneus.