Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina sent a letter to the Law Offices of the Public Defender Commission alleging concerns about local attorney Thomas Clear III, who is involved in the ongoing federal investigation into dismissed DWI cases and multiple Albuquerque police officers. The letter claims that the Public Defender’s Office ignored concerns about Clear, and Chief Public Defender Ben Baur responded, stating that the letter is a distraction from the ongoing investigation and that they are responsible to their clients and guided by ethical responsibilities.
The Albuquerque Police Department is investigating a potential decade-long scheme involving officers being paid to get DWI cases dismissed, leading to over 150 case dismissals and the placement of five officers on paid administrative leave. Chief Harold Medina revealed that the department's internal affairs investigation was prompted by a confidential source in December 2022, and the FBI was already investigating potential criminal behavior by the officers. The alleged scheme has caused the recent dismissal of numerous DWI cases, and the department is now taking steps to address the issue and make policy changes.
Multiple Albuquerque police officers have been placed on administrative leave as part of an ongoing federal investigation, leading to the dismissal of more than 150 DWI cases. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico confirmed the officers' leave and the case's involvement of federal law enforcement activity at multiple locations. The investigation is ongoing, and the Albuquerque Police Department has been cooperating with the FBI.
The FBI conducted raids on homes and businesses in Albuquerque, including the home of a defense attorney used as a law office, leading to the dismissal of 152 DWI cases by the Bernalillo County District Attorney. The attorney, who has not been charged, has represented at least five of the affected individuals. The raids also targeted the home of an Albuquerque police officer. Neighbors expressed shock at the events, and the community is unsettled by the implications for the judicial system.
Fort Bend County in Texas is implementing a "No Refusal" initiative for the Fourth of July weekend, allowing authorities to obtain blood search warrants for drivers suspected of impairment. Attorneys will be present to draft search warrants, and nurses will perform the blood draws. This measure is aimed at preventing drunk driving incidents and ensuring public safety during the holiday celebrations.
