
personnel.
27-year-old Julie Avila and 30-year-old Michelle Flores have been charged under a confidentiality statute that applies to unlawfully and intentionally releasing confidential information gained through a program relating to criminal
activity.
The state statute appears to be specifically aimed at maintaining the integrity of anonymous crime prevention and intervention programs such as Crime
Stoppers.
A statement of probable cause filed in Luna County Magistrate Court says Avila and Flores released confidential information obtained through the local Crime Stoppers tip line to non-law enforcement personnel.
The Crime Stoppers line – 546-7800 – is billed as being anonymous with calls never recorded or traced. It is set up to allow persons to report crimes without
repercussions, and sometimes with a financial reward incentive.
The two dispatchers reportedly have been let go of their jobs at Central Dispatch.