New Mexico
Ex-GOP candidate arrested in shootings at lawmakers’ homes
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A failed Republican state legislative candidate who authorities say was offended over shedding the election final November and made baseless claims that the election was “rigged” towards him was arrested Monday in reference to a collection of drive-by shootings concentrating on the houses of Democratic lawmakers in New Mexico’s largest metropolis.
Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina held a information convention Monday night hours after SWAT officers arrested Solomon Pena at his house.
Medina described Pena because the “mastermind” of what seems to be a politically-motivated felony conspiracy resulting in 4 shootings at or close to the houses of two county commissioners and two state legislators between early December and early January.
Pena misplaced in November to incumbent state Rep. Miguel P. Garcia, the longtime Democrat representing Home District 14 within the South Valley. Garcia gained by 48 share factors, or roughly 3,600 votes.
Police mentioned Pena, an election denier, had approached county and state lawmakers after his loss claiming the competition had been rigged towards him regardless of no proof of widespread voter fraud in New Mexico in 2020 or 2022. The shootings started shortly after these conversations.
New Mexico’s state Canvassing Board unanimously licensed the outcomes of the November election.
“This sort of radicalism is a risk to our nation and has made its solution to our doorstep proper right here in Albuquerque, New Mexico,” mentioned Mayor Tim Keller. “However I do know we’re going to push again, and we is not going to enable this to cross the edge.”
Deputy Commander Kyle Hartsock mentioned at the very least 5 folks, together with Pena, have been concerned within the shootings. Pena is accused of paying the others to hold out at the very least two of the shootings, in accordance with Hartsock, earlier than “Pena himself” allegedly “pulled the set off” throughout considered one of crimes.
Police mentioned they recognized Pena as their “key” suspect utilizing a mix of cellphone information, witness interviews and bullet casings collected on the lawmakers’ houses. His arrest comes one week after Medina, the police chief, initially introduced that they had recognized a suspect within the shootings.
A lawyer for Pena who may touch upon the allegations wasn’t listed Monday night time in jail information.
Nobody was injured within the shootings, which got here amid an increase in threats to members of Congress, college board members, election officers and different authorities staff across the nation. In Albuquerque, legislation enforcement has been struggling to handle back-to-back years of file homicides and protracted gun violence.
Hartsock mentioned extra arrests and costs have been anticipated within the case however declined to elaborate, citing the continuing investigation. He mentioned some people, together with Pena, have been in custody Monday night time.
A felony grievance outlining the precise costs towards Pena was anticipated to be launched within the coming days.
The shootings started in early December when eight rounds have been fired on the house of Bernalillo County Commissioner Adriann Barboa, police mentioned. Days later, former Bernalillo County Commissioner Debbie O’Malley’s house was focused.
As information stories started to floor concerning the shootings, state Rep. Javier Martinez examined his property and found injury from gunshots. Police imagine the taking pictures occurred in early December.
Then, through the first week of January, pictures have been fired on the house of state Sen. Linda Lopez — a lead sponsor of a 2021 invoice that reversed New Mexico’s ban on most abortion procedures.
Lopez mentioned in a press release that three of the bullets handed by her 10-year-old daughter’s bed room.
Police had been investigating two extra shootings — one within the neighborhood of New Mexico Lawyer Common Raul Torrez’s former marketing campaign workplace and one other at state Sen. Antonio Maestas’ workplace. However Gilbert Gallegos, a spokesman for the police division, mentioned Monday the shootings don’t seem like linked to the case.
New Mexico
Playoff-Race closing: New Mexico United takes on Colorado Springs Switchbacks – New Mexico United
New Mexico United travels to Colorado Springs this Wednesday for a Western Conference showdown in the USL Championship playoff race.
The Black & Yellow currently sit fifth in the USL Championship, fighting for the postseason and will look to keep building momentum as the regular season winds down. With a few matches remaining, every point matters, and United will aim to deliver a strong midweek performance on the road.
Wednesday’s contest will be the third meeting between United and the Switchbacks FC this year. In their previous two encounters, United secured a home victory in June during the Jagermeister cup, and drew in the first encounter in June. This clash gives United a chance to claim the season series and strengthen their hold on a playoff spot.
Standout Performers: Archimède and Keller
Forward Luther Archimède continues to be a spark for United’s attack, bringing energy, pace, and aerial ability. His late equalizing goal against Monterey Bay highlighted his gift for delivering in clutch moments. The sixth man has contributed two goals in six games off the bench, proving his talent.
Defender Kipp Keller has been a rock at the back for United since arriving, with his calm composure, strength, and sharp defensive instincts. His leadership on the backline and ability to read the game have been crucial in keeping opponents on their toes. His presence will be needed to keep Colorado’s attackers in check.
Milestones in Sight: Tambakis
Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis is on the verge of making USL Championship history, needing just one more clean sheet to become the league’s all-time leader. After recording his 58th career shutout recently—tying the current record held by Evan Newton—Tambakis will have the opportunity to stand alone at the top when United takes the field Wednesday night in Colorado.
About Colorado Springs
The Switchbacks have fought their way into playoff contention with their mix of grit and attacking ability. On the Attacking side Marco Micaletto has been getting it done, leading the team in goals with six. On the back line, Matthew Mahoney provides a physical and clinical presence, leading the Switchbacks in almost every defensive category this season.
Looking Ahead
Following Wednesday’s trip to Colorado, New Mexico United return home hosting Lexington SC on Sunday at 4 PM MT. With the postseason right around the corner, the Black & Yellow remain focused on collecting crucial points and carrying the momentum into October.
Get tickets HERE
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