Friday, May 16, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
District Attorney Opens Case into Pet's Death in Questa, NM
Taos, NM — The 8th Judicial District Attorney’s Office has received an initial report from the Questa Police Department regarding the death of a dog on Thursday, May 8, in Questa, New Mexico.
District Attorney Marcus Montoya has officially opened a case and appointed a prosecutor to review the circumstances surrounding the incident. The DA’s Office is awaiting further investigative findings from the Questa Police Department before determining whether criminal charges are warranted.
“Our office is committed to upholding the laws that protect the safety and well-being of all New Mexicans, including their pets,” said District Attorney Montoya. “When our pets suffer harm or a violent death, it can feel like the loss of a family member. Emotions run high, and the desire for justice is strong. It is our duty to uncover the facts and, if a crime has occurred, to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law”.
Under New Mexico law, acts of extreme or malicious cruelty to animals are classified as fourth-degree felonies.
The District Attorney’s Office urges anyone with information about the incident to contact the Questa Police Department. Tips can be submitted via the department’s non-emergency line at (575) 586-1196. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE PRESS RELEASE IN PDF
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Thursday, May 15, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
JURY CONVICTS CLAYTON MAN OF AGGRAVATED BATTERY AND BREAKING AND ENTERING
Clayton, NM - On Monday, May 12, 2025, a jury of his peers convicted Albert Craine of Aggravated Battery Against a Household Member and Breaking and Entering at the Union County District Courthouse in Clayton, New Mexico. During the jury trial, Assistant District Attorney Jason Montclare proved beyond a reasonable doubt that Mr. Craine broke into the home of his ex-girlfriend and seriously injured her. The prosecution of this case reflects the 8th Judicial District Attorney Marcus Montoya’s commitment to protect the citizens of Clayton. At the conclusion of the case, the Honorable Judge Steven A. Romero held Mr. Craine without bond pending a final sentencing hearing. CLICK TO DOWNLOAD FULL PRESS RELEASE IN PDF
Wednesday, April 2, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
The 8th Judicial District Attorney’s Office and the Clayton Police Department announce the charging of convicted sex offender Abel Villareal of Clayton, New Mexico, for failing to register as a sex offender in Union County as required by law. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FULL PRESS RELEASE IN PDF