KRQE Newsfeed: DWI scandal, DA speaks out, Warmer weather, Downtown operation, Art display
Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday's Top Stories
City Councilors Quash Fire Chief’s Staffing Plans
Las Cruces community members mourn after deadly shooting at Young Park
Albuquerque mayor files complaint against city council over AFR staffing ordinance
Poll: Which upcoming concerts in New Mexico are you most ex
cited for?
Albuquerque rapper pleads guilty to federal drug trafficking charges
Albuquerque nonprofit vandalized for fourth time
‘Double sunrise’ will be visible this weekend: How and where to see it
Tuesday's Five Facts
[1] Albuquerque police sergeant placed on leave in connection to DWI Unit scandal - An Albuquerque police sergeant is on leave, while a former APD officer is pleading guilty for his role in the public corruption scheme. Monday, the department placed Sergeant Lucas Perez on leave after the U.S. Attorney's Office told them his cases may be in jeopardy because of the ongoing federal investigation. Former officer Nelson Ortiz pleaded guilty to a federal conspiracy charge after admitting to working with former attorney Thomas Clear III to get DWI cases dismissed in exchange for cash or gifts. Ortiz left the DWI unit in 2021, but admitted to continuing the scheme until he was caught in 2024.
[2] Bernalillo County DA speaks out on failed juvenile crime bills in the legislature - Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman is one of the biggest advocates calling for tougher penalties against some juveniles. Bregman expressed his frustration after the legislation he pushed was either voted down in the Senate or never made it out of committee. Bregman says his push to increase punishment for juvenile offenders is even more pressing after recent incidents. The governor has signaled that she could call another special session on crime.
[3] Dry, warmer, & less breezy weather around New Mexico - Even warmer air is in store with mostly light winds this afternoon as temperatures will reach the 70s and 80s for most with high 50s to the 60s in the northern mountains. Temperatures will reach close to the low 90s in parts of southeast New Mexico. Mostly light winds with warm afternoons will remain through the later parts of next week.
[4] APD cracks down on reckless driving in downtown Albuquerque - Albuquerque police are cracking down on reckless driving that pops up on the weekends downtown. During APD’s latest operation, officers are seen trying to catch a motorcyclist who they say was driving recklessly. Officers say motorcycle fled from police, but air support spotted him crawling underneath the porch of a northeast home. Officers on the ground moved in and made the arrest. Officers issued 564 citations over the weekend, including six DWI arrests and three felony arrests.
[5] New Mexico State University students’ artwork on display in Las Cruces - Two art students at NMSU are sharing their art with the Las Cruces community through local bus stops. It's part of "Art Stop 2025" which is an initiative bringing student and local art to the public. NMSU says the two seniors, Yalet Yanar and Citali Delgado, were chosen for their unique and powerful pieces. Yanar's "Take a Walk" reflects her personal journey throughout the city. Delgado's "Second Sight" is a tribute to the intuition of women. ...read more read less