Attorney General Raúl Torrez has petitioned the New Mexico Supreme Court to review the potential removal of Eleventh Judicial District Attorney Bernadine Martin. This action follows a request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham earlier this year and is based on findings from an investigation by the New Mexico Department of Justice.
"This is an extraordinary step, but it is necessary to protect the integrity of the justice system," said Attorney General Raúl Torrez. "The people of McKinley County deserve a district attorney who can fulfill the responsibilities of the office. It is now up to the Supreme Court to review the evidence and determine whether Ms. Martin should remain in that role."
The petition claims that District Attorney Martin has failed in her duties, citing several issues: a hostile workplace environment with reports of yelling and retaliation, failure to prepare or subpoena witnesses leading to dismissed cases, violations of procurement law including unauthorized contracts and improper use of state funds, reliance on contract attorneys whose authority is questionable, and engaging in private legal practice while serving as District Attorney.
Under state law, the Supreme Court holds original jurisdiction over such removal proceedings. The writ requests that the Court examine the petition, consider testimony and evidence, and make a final decision.
Information from this article can be found here.
