A $20 million settlement exposes a shocking case of police misconduct in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
At a Glance
- Las Cruces agrees to a record $20 million settlement for the fatal police shooting of Teresa Gomez
- Former officer Felipe Hernandez faces second-degree murder charges for the October 2023 incident
- Body camera footage reveals profanity, lies, and threats by Hernandez before the shooting
- The settlement marks a shift towards accountability and transparency in police-involved shootings
Record Settlement Exposes Deep-Rooted Issues in Law Enforcement
The city of Las Cruces, New Mexico, has agreed to pay a staggering $20 million to settle a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Teresa Gomez. This settlement, the largest for a police officer killing in New Mexico’s history, stems from a fatal shooting by former Las Cruces police officer Felipe Hernandez on October 3, 2023. The incident has brought to light serious concerns about police conduct and the need for accountability in law enforcement.
Hernandez, who is no longer a police officer, now faces criminal charges including second-degree murder. His trial is set for June 2, 2025. The severity of these charges underscores the gravity of the situation and the apparent breach of trust between law enforcement and the community they are sworn to protect.
City reaches $20 million settlement agreement in Teresa Gomez wrongful death lawsuit https://t.co/XowDPqCLre
— Las Cruces Sun-News (@CrucesSunNews) November 23, 2024
Disturbing Details Emerge from Body Camera Footage
Body camera footage from the incident paints a disturbing picture of the events leading up to Gomez’s death. The video reportedly shows Hernandez using profanities, lying, and threatening Gomez before ultimately shooting her as she attempted to drive away. These actions, if proven true, represent a gross violation of police protocol and basic human rights.
“From the very beginning of Mr. Hernandez’s interactions with Ms. Gomez, the ability to manage protocol was nonexistent,” Gerald Byers said.
The fact that criminal charges were announced just three months after the shooting, following an investigation by the Doña Ana County Officer Involved Task Force, indicates a swift response to the incident. This prompt action suggests a commitment to accountability within the Las Cruces Police Department and city officials.
In an unprecedented move, the city of Las Cruces has publicly released information about the settlement and offered condolences for the police shooting. This marks a significant shift towards transparency in handling such sensitive cases.
While the settlement is not an admission of liability, it clearly acknowledges the profound loss suffered by Gomez’s family and the community. The city’s decision to finance the settlement through an ordinance to be brought before the city council further emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the commitment to addressing it openly.
A Call for Change in Police Conduct
The Gomez family’s lawyer expressed gratitude to the city for acknowledging the injustice and hopes this case will lead to improved police conduct to prevent future tragedies. This sentiment echoes a growing national concern about police use of force and the need for comprehensive reforms in law enforcement practices.
“They trust that the city will redouble efforts to make sure no other family suffers the tragedy of losing a loved one to abusive police conduct,” Shannon Kennedy said.
As the criminal trial against Hernandez approaches, scheduled for June 2025, the nation will be watching closely.
