Deputy Jeff Hammerel | Courtesy: Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office announced that deputy Jeff Hammerel was placed on administrative leave on Thursday. This is in connection to the Albuquerque Police Department DWI Unit scandal. Court records show that Ricardo "Rick" Mendez pled guilty to a number of charges connected to the scandal. That guilty plea implicated Hammerel. Related Coverage: 'Corruption at its finest': ACLU Attorney reacts to DWI scheme charges First person pleads guilty in APD DWI dismissal scandal; NMSP, BCSO now named How tipster claims APD DWI corruption scheme worked 10th APD officer placed on administrative leave in DWI Unit investigation Arresting deputy refuses to testify in DWI license hearing Sheriff John Allen said he has been in constant contact with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney's Office. In a statement, Sheriff Allen said: Sheriff John Allen confirms that he has been in direct contact with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office regarding the involvement of a Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office deputy in the ongoing federal investigation into DWI case manipulations. “Corruption has no place in law enforcement, and BCSO will fully cooperate with its federal partners,” stated Sheriff Allen. Upon learning of the involvement of BCSO personnel, the deputy in question, identified as Jeff Hammerel, was immediately placed on administrative leave last night. Sheriff Allen has consistently demonstrated zero tolerance for misconduct, particularly corruption, and remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity within the Sheriff’s Office. In keeping with our commitment to transparency, Sheriff Allen will review all relevant documents and provide a detailed update to the public as soon as possible. The Sheriff is currently headed to Washington, DC alongside Senator Heinrich, Senator Lujan, Congressman Vasquez and Congresswoman Stansbury, to address topics related to law enforcement in New Mexico and Bernalillo County.  A press conference will be scheduled upon his return to discuss the developments of this case and our ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and maintain public trust.