Pacumeni was a Nephite political figure and son of the late chief judge Pahoran. In the year 52 BC, following his father’s death, he became embroiled in a contentious succession dispute for the judgment-seat along with his brothers, Pahoran and Paanchi. When Pahoran was favored by the voice of the people to ascend to the coveted position, Pacumeni submitted to the will of the electorate (Helaman 1:2-7).
Upon Pahoran’s assassination by the hand of Kishkumen, a conspirator linked to Paanchi’s faction, Pacumeni was elevated according to the voice of the people to serve as the chief judge and governor (Helaman 1:9, 13). His tenure, however, was brief and marred by conflict. During a period of internal strife and weakened defenses consequent to the competition over the judgment-seat, the Lamanite general Coriantumr seized the opportunity to invade. Coriantumr successfully captured the Nephite capital, Zarahemla, and it was in this coup that Pacumeni met his demise; he fled Coriantumr but was pursued and slain against the city wall (Helaman 1:18-21). His death signaled not just the end of his rulership but also reflected the precarious state of Nephite political stability during that era.