Attorney Thomas Clear III is at the center of a DWI scandal involving law enforcement agencies in New Mexico, including the Albuquerque Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State Police. Clear, who has faced a court order to show cause why disciplinary action is not appropriate, has resigned from practicing law and changed his status to inactive in the New Mexico State Bar. Despite allegations in court documents, Clear has not been formally charged with any crime related to the DWI scandal. He argues that responding to the court’s order would require him to abandon his Fifth Amendment rights, which he cannot do. Clear’s attorney states that he has not been actively practicing law in the state since June 2024 and is requesting the court to accept his resignation based on his change of status. The scandal also involves private investigator Ricardo Mendez, who recently pleaded guilty to charges related to the case. Authorities are investigating the involvement of law enforcement officers, including a Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office deputy. New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler has stated that if any officers are found to be involved, they will be swiftly dealt with. The case is still developing, with no evidence yet implicating any officers. Mendez’s sentencing is set for April 29, 2025, and investigations into the scandal continue. Stay updated on the latest news with the KOAT app.
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