FBI Continues Investigation into Albuquerque DWI Scandal as Another APD Officer Pleads Guilty
Albuquerque, NM – The FBI’s investigation into a widespread corruption scheme within the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) is ongoing, with recent developments highlighting the depth of the misconduct. Former APD officers Joshua Montaño and Honorio Alba have pleaded guilty to federal charges, including racketeering, extortion, and accepting bribes. Both admitted to conspiring with attorney Ricardo Mendez in a scheme that allowed individuals arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) to evade conviction in exchange for bribes and gifts. (apnews.com)
Mendez’s law firm reportedly offered substantial sums of money to officers to avoid appearing in court as witnesses, leading to the dismissal of numerous DWI cases. This practice has been linked to the dismissal of over 150 DWI cases, prompting the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office to dismiss more than 200 pending criminal cases associated with the implicated officers. (apnews.com)
Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina emphasized the department’s commitment to accountability, stating, "We will continue to follow the evidence and ensure everyone is held accountable." He acknowledged the ongoing nature of the investigation, noting that more details of the conspiracy are still being uncovered. (apnews.com)
The FBI’s Albuquerque Special Agent in Charge, Raul Bujanda, expressed concern over the scale of the corruption, describing it as "a stain on every single one of us to carry a badge." He indicated that the investigation is far from over, stating, "We wouldn’t go and put something in, especially an affidavit, if we didn’t think that there was going to be more to it." (koat.com)
As the investigation progresses, the FBI continues to urge anyone with information about the scheme to come forward. The department is also reviewing its internal policies and procedures to prevent future misconduct and restore public trust.
Former APD Officers Plead Guilty in DWI Corruption Case:
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