Federal Authorities Step In After Police Chief’s Concerns
The police chief in New Mexico, who gained attention for criticizing the local district court’s decision to repeatedly release dangerous offenders, has announced that federal authorities are now involved in the case. Chief Jeremy Storey shared a video detailing the case of Neil Garcia, who has faced arrest 108 times—15 of those for felonies—but was consistently deemed incompetent to stand trial by the courts.
The police chief’s video highlighted Garcia’s troubling history and has been viewed widely, illustrating a seemingly flawed justice system.
“To all law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in New Mexico, the United States Attorney’s Office is back in business,” he stated during the announcement, mentioning a collaboration involving the Las Cruces Police Department, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for New Mexico, and the FBI’s Albuquerque Division.
Storey recalled that on the day of his video release, a United States attorney reached out to him, expressing a commitment to help hold Garcia accountable. He pointed out that despite the local District Attorney’s efforts—including pursuing outpatient treatment and civil commitment motions—these attempts to keep Garcia off the streets were unsuccessful in district court.
Ryan Ellison, the U.S. attorney for the district, confirmed that Garcia is now in federal custody, facing charges related to Hobbs Act robbery, which include threats of violence and disrupting commerce.
Ellison urged all law enforcement officers in New Mexico to report any violent repeat offenders, noting: “If you exhaust local options and the law permits, we will prosecute.” He mentioned that the federal authorities are actively seeking to apply charges against the most violent criminals statewide, emphasizing their determination to make an impact.
Special Agent Justin Garris applauded the teamwork between local and federal agencies in their mission to ensure public safety and hold criminals accountable. He also indicated that individuals convicted in federal court serve at least 85% of their sentences, and if Garcia is convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.
