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FBI Charges Former Deputy with Kidnapping and Assault
In a shocking case out of New Mexico, a former deputy sheriff has been arrested and charged with federal civil rights offenses. Michael Andrew Martinez, 33, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, was taken into custody on a criminal complaint charging him with deprivation of rights under color of law and obstruction of justice.
According to the complaint, on or about April 30, 2023, Martinez allegedly kidnapped and sexually assaulted the victim, Jane Doe, while working in his official capacity as an officer with the Doña Ana Sheriff’s Office (DASO). This egregious violation of the victim’s Fourth Amendment rights has left many in the community reeling.
But that was not the only crime Martinez allegedly committed. In an attempt to cover his tracks, the former deputy is accused of obstructing justice by trying to destroy evidence related to the kidnapping and assault of Jane Doe.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Doña Ana Sheriff’s Office and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marisa Ong and Matilda McCarthy Villalobos are prosecuting the case.
Martinez, a former employee of the New Mexico State Police and Hatch Police Department, could face up to life imprisonment if convicted on the current charges. The FBI is urging anyone who may have information about this case or believes they may be a victim of Martinez to come forward. Tips can be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov or by calling (505) 889-1300.
A complaint is only an allegation, and Martinez is presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, the severity of the charges against him suggests a serious breach of trust and a need for accountability.
The case against Martinez serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in law enforcement. As we continue to follow this developing story, one thing is clear: the people of New Mexico demand justice and will not tolerate any form of abuse of power.
Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Violent Crime|Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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