Disbarred Attorney in DWI Deception Scheme Has Law Office Seized
A judge has ruled that Thomas Clear III, the attorney at the center of the “DWI Deception” scheme involving local law enforcement in Albuquerque, New Mexico, can no longer practice law in federal court. Clear pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges last month, admitting to running the scheme since 1995. The New Mexico Supreme Court has already disbarred him from practicing law in state courts. In addition to being disbarred, the judge also ordered the U.S. Marshals Service to seize the house Clear used as his law office, as it was deemed to have been used in a criminal enterprise. Clear could face up to 130 years in prison, although a sentencing date has not been set.
The “DWI Deception” scheme involved Clear working with local law enforcement to deceive individuals arrested for driving while intoxicated. Clear would allegedly advise clients to plead guilty to DWI charges, even if they were innocent, in exchange for reduced penalties. The scheme has raised concerns about corruption within the legal system and the impact it has on those facing criminal charges.
This latest development marks a significant milestone in the legal proceedings against Clear and serves as a warning to other attorneys engaging in similar misconduct. The disbarment and seizure of Clear’s law office home underscore the seriousness of his actions and highlight the consequences of participating in illegal schemes that undermine the justice system.
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