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Federal Investigation of APD DWI Results in Plea Deal


Ricardo “Rick” Mendez, a key figure in the DWI scandal involving alleged kickbacks to police officers, has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to the case. Mendez, who worked as a paralegal for defense attorney Thomas Clear III, detailed how the scheme operated for over 16 years in cooperation with officers from Albuquerque police, New Mexico State Police, and Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Mendez charged DWI suspects thousands of dollars to get their cases dismissed with the help of Clear III, who is identified as “co-conspirator 1” in the plea agreement. In exchange for their cooperation, officers received various benefits such as money, free legal services, and hotel rooms. Mendez also alleges that senior APD officers used their influence to avoid investigation or discipline of DWI officers involved in the scheme. As a result of Mendez’s guilty plea, three more law enforcement officers, including BCSO deputy Jeff Hammerel, have been placed on leave. APD has also put Lt. Matthew Chavez and Lt. Kyle Curtis on administrative leave. The New Mexico State Police denies any involvement in the scandal and continues to cooperate with investigators. District Attorney Sam Bregman previously dismissed over 200 pending DWI cases due to credibility concerns, and more cases may be reviewed and potentially dismissed in light of these latest developments. Corruption has no place in law enforcement, and local authorities are committed to fully cooperating with federal investigations into the DWI case manipulations.

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