BC-NM-FATAL SHOOTOUT
1 dead, 2 others hurt after a shootout near Albuquerque park
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say one person is dead and two others injured after a shootout near a southwest Albuquerque park. City police say officers police responded to reports of multiple people shot near Westgate Community Park on Saturday night. They say there was an exchange of gunfire between an unknown number of people. Police say one person was found dead at the scene. Two other people had to be taken to the hospital, with one of them listed in critical condition. Police say homicide detectives have started an investigation into the shooting.

HISTORIC SCHOOL-PRESERVATION
City revisits turning historic school into community center
ALAMOGORDO, N.M. (AP) — Elected officials in Alamogordo have reopened a discussion about rehabilitating and transforming the historic Dudley School into a community center. The school is one of the oldest structures in the southern New Mexico city. City commissioners heard a presentation about the $557,000 project during a recent meeting. The project had been put on hold because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Joe Lewandowski of the Tularosa Basin Historical Society said his group wants to save and restore the building because of its role in Alamogordo's history. Built in 1914, the four-room schoolhouse served Hispanic students during the first half of the 20th century.

BC-NM-ELECTION 2022-REPUBLICAN PRIMARY
Results of New Mexico GOP pre-primary convention postponed
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The state Republican Party has postponed releasing pre-primary convention results after its electronic voting system encountered glitches. Party officials say they moved to a back-up plan to have paper ballots in the interest of election integrity after the software malfunction Saturday. They say the paper ballot voting went smoothly and the results will be released once all ballots are properly counted. GOP contenders for Congress and statewide elected office are competing for positions on the primary ballot ahead of the June vote. The Republican convention will determine who gets on the primary ballot with at least 20% of endorsement votes and who gets top billing with the highest approval.  

BC-POLICE SHOOTING-VALENCIA COUNTY
Police: Suspect fatally shot after driving wrong way on I-25
BELEN, N.M. (AP) — Law enforcement officers shot and killed a crime suspect whose pickup crashed after being driven the wrong way on Interstate 25 while being pursued in Valencia County south of metro Albuquerque. The New Mexico State Police said Saturday that two Bernalillo County sheriff's deputies and a NMSP officer fired at the man Friday night after he was given "numerous commands to exit the vehicle and surrender peacefully," An NMSP statement did not elaborate on circumstances immediately before the gunfire. The man's identity was not released but the statement said he was was wanted in an alleged aggravated assault with a deadly weapon on a household member. 

ALBUQUERQUE-TEEN SHOOTING
Suspect, 14, arrested in fatal shooting of Albuquerque teen
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Albuquerque police say a 14-year-old boy has been arrested in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy who accused the younger boy of stealing his gun. Police said Saturday that the suspect was arrested in Friday's killing of Andrew Burson near a high school that both boys attended. Police say Burson was shot after he accused the 14-year-old of stealing a gun Burson purchased over the internet. Police say the suspect was arrested on suspicion of murder and tampering with evidence. Court records didn't list an attorney who could speak on his behalf. The Associated Press generally does not identify juveniles accused of crimes.

LEGISLATURE-LAWMAKER ARREST
New Mexico lawmaker pleads not guilty, won't seek reelection
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A New Mexico lawmaker charged with drunken driving during this year's Legislative session won't seek reelection. Albuquerque Rep. Georgene Louis says in a statement through her lawyer that she's been honored to serve her constituents the past 10 years but won't try to run again to keep her seat in the House. Louis, a lawyer for Tesuque Pueblo and a one-time congressional candidate, was seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party. Louis initially apologized following her arrest but hasn't commented on details later revealed in a video of it. The video shows her identifying herself as a lawmaker and flashing her credentials.

SOCIAL MEDIA-FREE SPEECH
Appeals court: Politician's Facebook feed not a public forum
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A federal appeals court has rejected a lawsuit that accused an elected county commissioner in southern New Mexico of free speech violations for blocking a resident from discussions on the politician's personal Facebook page. The 10th Circuit Court in Denver sided Friday with County Commissioner Couy Griffin in the dispute over his social media account and whether it functioned as a public forum concerning county affairs, with guarantees to public access and free speech. Griffin is the cofounder of the group Cowboys for Trump and was suspended indefinitely from Facebook in the aftermath of his arrest in connection with the Jan. 6. insurrection on the U.S. Capitol.

NM FATAL SHOOTOUT
1 dead, several injured after shootout near Albuquerque park
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say one person is dead and several others injured after a shootout near a southwest Albuquerque park. City police say officers police responded to reports of multiple people shot near Westgate Community Park on Saturday night. They say there was an exchange of gunfire between an unknown number of people. Police say one person was found dead at the scene and others were injured. The exact number of injured people remains unclear. Police say homicide detectives have started an investigation into the shooting.

POLICE SHOOTING-VALENCIA COUNTY
Police: Suspect fatally shot after driving wrong way on I-25
BELEN, N.M. (AP) — Law enforcement officers shot and killed a crime suspect whose pickup crashed after being driven the wrong way on Interstate 25 while being pursued in Valencia County south of metro Albuquerque. The New Mexico State Police said Saturday that two Bernalillo County sheriff's deputies and a NMSP officer fired at the man Friday night after he was given "numerous commands to exit the vehicle and surrender peacefully," An NMSP statement did not elaborate on circumstances immediately before the gunfire. The man's identity was not released but the statement said he was was wanted in an alleged aggravated assault with a deadly weapon on a household member. 

ALBUQUERQUE-TEEN SHOOTING
Suspect, 14, arrested in fatal shooting of Albuquerque teen
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Albuquerque police say a 14-year-old boy has been arrested in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy who accused the younger boy of stealing his gun. Police said Saturday that the suspect was arrested in Friday's killing of Andrew Burson near a high school that both boys attended. Police say Burson was shot after he accused the 14-year-old of stealing a gun Burson purchased over the internet. Police say the suspect was arrested on suspicion of murder and tampering with evidence. Court records didn't list an attorney who could speak on his behalf. The Associated Press generally does not identify juveniles accused of crimes.

POLICE SHOOTING-TORRANCE COUNTY
Police: Deputies fatally shoot man after he shot at one
EDGEWOOD, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say Torrance County sheriff's deputies fatally shot a Las Cruces man after he allegedly pulled a handgun from his waistband and shot at one of the deputies, who was not hurt. A New Mexico State Police statement said Andrew deputies encountered Castellano when they responded to a report of a vehicle stuck in snow in Edgewood early Thursday.  According to the statement, Castellano shot at one of the deputies and at least two deputies returned fire, shooting Castellano at least once. Edgewood is 26 miles (42 kilometers) east of Albuquerque.

LEGISLATURE-LAWMAKER ARREST
New Mexico lawmaker pleads not guilty, won't seek reelection
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A New Mexico lawmaker charged with drunken driving during this year's Legislative session won't seek reelection. Albuquerque Rep. Georgene Louis says in a statement through her lawyer that she's been honored to serve her constituents the past 10 years but won't try to run again to keep her seat in the House. Louis, a lawyer for Tesuque Pueblo and a one-time congressional candidate, was seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party. Louis initially apologized following her arrest but hasn't commented on details later revealed in a video of it. The video shows her identifying herself as a lawmaker and flashing her credentials.

SOCIAL MEDIA-FREE SPEECH
Appeals court: Politician's Facebook feed not a public forum
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A federal appeals court has rejected a lawsuit that accused an elected county commissioner in southern New Mexico of free speech violations for blocking a resident from discussions on the politician's personal Facebook page. The 10th Circuit Court in Denver sided Friday with County Commissioner Couy Griffin in the dispute over his social media account and whether it functioned as a public forum concerning county affairs, with guarantees to public access and free speech. Griffin is the cofounder of the group Cowboys for Trump and was suspended indefinitely from Facebook in the aftermath of his arrest in connection with the Jan. 6. insurrection on the U.S. Capitol.

ALBUQUERQUE-TEEN SHOOTING
Albuquerque police name 16-year-old shot near his school
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say a teenager was shot and killed across the street from an Albuquerque school, and they have information about a possible suspect. Police said Friday morning's shooting appeared to have stemmed from an altercation between a 16-year-old West Mesa High School student and another minor. Police say the student killed was Andrew Burson. The suspect has not been named. City and school officials say the gun was not brought onto campus. But they say more needs to be done to ensure children don't have access to firearms. Classes are canceled at the high school Monday.

CLERGY SEX ABUSE-INSURANCE LAWSUIT
Archdiocese sues insurers over sexual abuse coverage
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — One of the oldest Roman Catholic dioceses in the U.S. is suing four insurance companies over claims that they haven't fulfilled contracts to provide liability coverage for sexual abuse complaints. The Archdiocese of Santa Fe filed the lawsuit this week as it deals with an ongoing bankruptcy case that involves more than 400 people who allege they were victims of clergy sexual abuse. Some of the claims date back decades. The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that the archdiocese hopes to raise enough money, including through insurance payouts, to settle the bankruptcy case.

BALLOON FIESTA-FAA RULE
New Mexico delegation voices concern about FAA tracking rule
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Members of New Mexico's congressional delegation are calling on federal aviation officials to waive a requirement that could affect the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta as well as year-round flights over the city. A letter outlining the concerns was sent this week to the Federal Aviation Administration by Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury and U.S. Sens. Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Lujan, all Democrats. Republican Congresswoman Yvette Herrell also penned a letter, writing that the economic impact of the fiesta and the balloon industry provides millions of dollars and supports stable jobs for the community. At issue is a requirement that aircraft have specific tracking technology. 

ALBUQUERQUE-TEEN SHOOTING
Suspect, 14, arrested in fatal shooting of Albuquerque teen
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Albuquerque police say a 14-year-old boy has been arrested in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy who accused the younger boy of stealing his gun. Police said Saturday that the suspect was arrested in Friday's killing of Andrew Burson near a high school that both boys attended. Police say Burson was shot after he accused the 14-year-old of stealing a gun Burson purchased over the internet. Police say the suspect was arrested on suspicion of murder and tampering with evidence. Court records didn't list an attorney who could speak on his behalf. The Associated Press generally does not identify juveniles accused of crimes.

ALBUQUERQUE-TEEN SHOOTING
Albuquerque police name 16-year-old shot near his school
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say a teenager was shot and killed across the street from an Albuquerque school, and they have information about a possible suspect. Police said Friday morning's shooting appeared to have stemmed from an altercation between a 16-year-old West Mesa High School student and another minor. Police say the student killed was Andrew Burson. The suspect has not been named. City and school officials say the gun was not brought onto campus. But they say more needs to be done to ensure children don't have access to firearms. Classes are canceled at the high school Monday.

SOCIAL MEDIA-FREE SPEECH
Appeals court: Politician's Facebook feed not a public forum
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A federal appeals court has rejected a lawsuit that accused an elected county commissioner in southern New Mexico of free speech violations for blocking a resident from discussions on the politician's personal Facebook page. The 10th Circuit Court in Denver sided Friday with County Commissioner Couy Griffin in the dispute over his social media account and whether it functioned as a public forum concerning county affairs, with guarantees to public access and free speech. Griffin is the cofounder of the group Cowboys for Trump and was suspended indefinitely from Facebook in the aftermath of his arrest in connection with the Jan. 6. insurrection on the U.S. Capitol.

LEGISLATURE-LAWMAKER ARREST
New Mexico lawmaker pleads not guilty, won't seek reelection
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A New Mexico lawmaker charged with drunken driving during this year's Legislative session won't seek reelection. Albuquerque Rep. Georgene Louis says in a statement through her lawyer that she's been honored to serve her constituents the past 10 years but won't try to run again to keep her seat in the House. Louis, a lawyer for Tesuque Pueblo and a one-time congressional candidate, was seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party. Louis initially apologized following her arrest but hasn't commented on details later revealed in a video of it. The video shows her identifying herself as a lawmaker and flashing her credentials.

CLERGY SEX ABUSE-INSURANCE LAWSUIT
Archdiocese sues insurers over sexual abuse coverage
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — One of the oldest Roman Catholic dioceses in the U.S. is suing four insurance companies over claims that they haven't fulfilled contracts to provide liability coverage for sexual abuse complaints. The Archdiocese of Santa Fe filed the lawsuit this week as it deals with an ongoing bankruptcy case that involves more than 400 people who allege they were victims of clergy sexual abuse. Some of the claims date back decades. The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that the archdiocese hopes to raise enough money, including through insurance payouts, to settle the bankruptcy case.

POLICE SHOOTING-TORRANCE COUNTY
Police: Deputies fatally shoot man after he shot at one
EDGEWOOD, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say Torrance County sheriff's deputies fatally shot a Las Cruces man after he allegedly pulled a handgun from his waistband and shot at one of the deputies, who was not hurt. A New Mexico State Police statement said Andrew deputies encountered Castellano when they responded to a report of a vehicle stuck in snow in Edgewood early Thursday.  According to the statement, Castellano shot at one of the deputies and at least two deputies returned fire, shooting Castellano at least once. Edgewood is 26 miles (42 kilometers) east of Albuquerque.

BALLOON FIESTA-FAA RULE
New Mexico delegation voices concern about FAA tracking rule
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Members of New Mexico's congressional delegation are calling on federal aviation officials to waive a requirement that could affect the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta as well as year-round flights over the city. A letter outlining the concerns was sent this week to the Federal Aviation Administration by Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury and U.S. Sens. Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Lujan, all Democrats. Republican Congresswoman Yvette Herrell also penned a letter, writing that the economic impact of the fiesta and the balloon industry provides millions of dollars and supports stable jobs for the community. At issue is a requirement that aircraft have specific tracking technology. 

AP-US-POLICE-SHOOTING-NEW-MEXICO
New Mexico officer wounded, 1 suspect dead, 2nd at large
HOBBS, N.M. (AP) — Officials say an encounter between a New Mexico officer and two suspects left the officer wounded, one of the suspects dead and the other at large after she escaped in a police vehicle. The name of the wounded officer from Hobbs, near the Texas border, wasn't immediately released but he's expected to recover. Police say the suspect who died as 27-year-old Daniel Ramirez and identified the escaped suspect as 28-year-old Janessa Perez of Hobbs. Police say the incident began around 10:30 p.m. Wednesday when the officer encountered what appeared to a stranded vehicle. The New Mexico State Police is investigating.

AP-US-POLICE-SHOOTING-NEW-MEXICO
New Mexico officer wounded, 1 suspect dead, 2nd at large
HOBBS, N.M. (AP) — Officials say an encounter between a New Mexico officer and two suspects left the officer wounded, one of the suspects dead and the other at large after she escaped in a police vehicle. The name of the wounded officer from Hobbs, near the Texas border, wasn't immediately released but he's expected to recover. Police say the suspect who died as 27-year-old Daniel Ramirez and identified the escaped suspect as 28-year-old Janessa Perez of Hobbs. Police say the incident began around 10:30 p.m. Wednesday when the officer encountered what appeared to a stranded vehicle. The New Mexico State Police is investigating.

AP-US-MISSING-INDIGENOUS-NEW-MEXICO
New Mexico aims more resources at missing Indigenous cases
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed legislation aimed at ensuring more effective coordination among law enforcement agencies when it comes to cases involving missing or slain Native American women. The measures also will boost data collection and education as well as provide grant funding to improve reporting of missing persons cases. The governor was joined by victims' families for a signing ceremony at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque on Thursday. Supporters say the efforts will help unite communities in providing better access to the resources needed to help solve potential crimes and bring justice to families.

SCHOOL BUS CRASH
Police: Car driver charged in Albuquerque school bus crash
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Albuquerque police say one of two car drivers believed to have been racing on Albuquerque streets has been charged in connection with a school bus rollover crash in which three students were seriously injured. Police said 49-year-old Mario Perez faces two counts of great bodily harm by vehicle. The crash occurred Wednesday just hours after police announced a new traffic enforcement program targeting speeding and street racing. Police said Perez was also injured in the crash that he''' be jailed after he's released from the hospital. Court records didn't list an attorney for Perez who might comment on his behalf. Police are seeking information on the second car driver. 

POLICE SHOOTING-TORRANCE COUNTY
State Police: Suspect dead after shooting in Torrance County
EDGEWOOD, N.M. (AP) — Authorities say a suspect is dead following a shooting in Edgewood that involved the Torrance County Sheriff's Office. A brief statement released Thursday by the New Mexico State Police didn't say whether a sheriff's deputy shot the suspect or provide other information on circumstances of the incident other than that no deputies were injured. The statement said the state agency is investigating the incident.

BC-US-ALEC-BALDWIN-SET-SHOOTING
Slain cinematographer's husband angry Baldwin deflects blame
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The husband of a cinematographer shot and killed on the set of the film "Rust" says it's "absurd" that Alec Baldwin believes he's not to blame. Matt Hutchins, husband of Halyna Hutchins, made the remarks in an interview with the "Today" show that airs in full Thursday. Matt Hutchins says he was "so angry" when he heard Baldwin tell ABC News in December that he was not to blame for the shooting. Baldwin said he was pointing the gun at Hutchins at her instruction as a scene was being set up on the New Mexico set, and it went off without him pulling the trigger. 
 
VIRUS OUTBREAK-NEW MEXICO
Pandemic crisis standards to expire for New Mexico hospitals
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico's top health official says COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are continuing to decline and the state is still on track to lift its crisis standards of care declaration for hospitals in the coming weeks. The declaration was issued last fall as a way to ease the strain on New Mexico's already overburdened health care system. A few hospitals enacted the standards, which cleared the way for them to ration care if necessary. They had the option of suspending procedures that weren't medically necessary if they didn't have capacity. Health Secretary Dr. David Scrase said Wednesday that the availability of hospital beds increased this week.

BC-NM-SCHOOL BUS CRASH 2ND LD-WRITETHRU
7 middle school students injured in bus crash in Albuquerque
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Police in southwest Albuquerque say seven middle school students have been taken to a hospital after a school bus rolled over following a crash with a sports car. Police say none of the injuries are life-threatening. The driver of the sports car also was taken to the hospital after Wednesday afternoon's crash and authorities are investigating to determine if the vehicle was street racing at the time of the collision. KOB-TV posted a photo on its website showing the bus tipped over on its left side on a street near some houses. Albuquerque Public Schools officials say the bus was carrying 23 students from George I. Sánchez Collaborative Community School.

AP-US-ALEC-BALDWIN-SET-SHOOTING
Slain cinematographer's husband angry Baldwin deflects blame
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The husband of a cinematographer shot and killed on the set of the film "Rust" says it's "absurd" that Alex Baldwin believes he's not to blame. Matt Hutchins, husband of Halyna Hutchins, made the remarks in an interview with the "Today" show that airs in full Thursday. Matt Hutchins says he was "so angry" when he heard Baldwin tell ABC News in December that he was not to blame for the shooting. Baldwin said he was pointing the gun at Hutchins at her instruction as a scene was being set up on the New Mexico set, and it went off without him pulling the trigger.   

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NEW MEXICO
Pandemic crisis standards to expire for New Mexico hospitals
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico's top health official says COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are continuing to decline and the state is still on track to lift its crisis standards of care declaration for hospitals in the coming weeks. The declaration was issued last fall as a way to ease the strain on New Mexico's already overburdened health care system. A few hospitals enacted the standards, which cleared the way for them to ration care if necessary. They had the option of suspending procedures that weren't medically necessary if they didn't have capacity. Health Secretary Dr. David Scrase said Wednesday that the availability of hospital beds increased this week.

ELECTION 2022-REPUBLICAN PRIMARY
New Mexico Republicans compete to appear on primary ballot
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Republican Party contenders for Congress and statewide elected office are scheduled to compete for positions on the ballot ahead of the June primary election. A pre-primary convention Saturday is scheduled to bring together local GOP delegates from across the state to meet and listen to candidates. Five contenders are seeking the Republican nomination to challenge incumbent Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, including state Rep. Rebecca Dow of Truth or Consequences, Sandoval County Commissioner Jay Block and former television meteorologist Mark Ronchetti of Albuquerque. The convention will determine who gets on the primary ballot with at least 20% of endorsement votes and who gets top billing with the highest approval.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA-TAXES
Court: Medical marijuana can't be taxed in New Mexico
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The New Mexico Supreme Court is letting stand a ruling by a lower court that found cannabis purchases by medical marijuana patients should not have been subject to gross receipts tax. The Supreme Court issued its order Wednesday. In a 2020 ruling, the New Mexico Court of Appeals likened medical marijuana to other prescriptions, which are untaxed in New Mexico. The case stemmed from requests for refunds by producers in 2014 and again in 2018. The state Taxation and Revenue Department had denied those claims. The agency said it was disappointed with the Supreme Court's decision to quash its review of the case.

MARIJUANA-NEW MEXICO RULES
Marijuana rule changes spark criticism in New Mexico
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The agency charged with setting up New Mexico's marijuana industry is proposing changes to existing rules less than a month before recreational sales are scheduled to begin. Some who are working on opening new businesses criticized the Cannabis Control Division during a public meeting Tuesday, saying the agency is playing with the rules before the game begins. Division officials have acknowledged the challenge of establishing a new industry in a little over eight months and said some changes are needed. The division has received more than 800 applications for business licenses across all sectors of the industry.

SOLAR SHORTAGE-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico regulators approve plan to keep coal plant open
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico regulators have approved a plan by the state's largest electric utility to keep open part of a coal-fired power plant for an extra three months as a way to avoid blackouts this summer. The Public Regulation Commission made its decision Wednesday, less than a week after Public Service Co. of New Mexico submitted its proposal. The utility will keep one unit at the San Juan Generating Station running through September, rather than closing it this summer as planned. Developers have blamed supply chain problems and the pandemic for delays in the construction of the solar farms and battery storage stations that were supposed to replace the coal plant.

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico lobbyist accuses state lawmaker of groping her
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A lobbyist for progressive advocacy groups in New Mexico has accused a leading Democratic state senator of grabbing and pinching her buttocks at a hotel reception in 2015. She is calling on the lawmaker to resign in a public letter. Lobbyist Marianna Anaya says Sen. Daniel Ivey-Soto of Albuquerque groped her at a reception in Santa Fe for a teachers union. Ivey-Soto on Wednesday denied that allegation and said his interactions with the lobbyist were never sexual. Anaya vowed to file a complaint with the Legislature, which overhauled its anti-harassment policies in 2018.

ELECTION 2022-REPUBLICAN PRIMARY
New Mexico Republicans compete to appear on primary ballot
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Republican Party contenders for Congress and statewide elected office are scheduled to compete for positions on the ballot ahead of the June primary election. A pre-primary convention Saturday is scheduled to bring together local GOP delegates from across the state to meet and listen to candidates. Five contenders are seeking the Republican nomination to challenge incumbent Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, including state Rep. Rebecca Dow of Truth or Consequences, Sandoval County Commissioner Jay Block and former television meteorologist Mark Ronchetti of Albuquerque. The convention will determine who gets on the primary ballot with at least 20% of endorsement votes and who gets top billing with the highest approval.

AP-US-TRIBAL-WATER-SETTLEMENTS
Haaland: 16 tribal water settlements will get $1.7 billion
PHOENIX (AP) — The Biden administration will use $1.7 billion from the recently enacted federal infrastructure bill to fund 16 tribal water rights settlements. U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland announced the funding Tuesday during a visit to Arizona. The money will ensure that tribes get access to water they've been promised but have been unable to use because of a lack of funding for infrastructure to store and move it. Access to reliable, clean water and basic sanitation facilities on tribal lands remains a challenge for hundreds of thousands of people. 

COLD CASE RAPE-MURDER
New Mexico man guilty in 1980 killing of 79-year-old woman
SANTA ANA, Calif. (AP) — A New Mexico man has been convicted of raping and killing a 79-year-old woman in Southern California more than four decades ago. Sixty-four-year-old Andre Lepere was convicted Tuesday in Orange County. He was accused of killing Viola Hagenkord, whose body was found in her Anaheim bedroom in 1980. Authorities say DNA collected at the scene was reexamined last year and tied Lepere to the crime scene. At his trial, Lepere claimed he'd had consensual sex with the woman —a claim that the prosecutor called ridiculous. Lepere will be sentenced last month. He could face life in prison without the possibility of parole.

AP-US-PLACE-NAMES-DEROGATORY-TERMS
Proposal to nix derogatory term targets hundreds of US sites
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Federal officials have come up with a list of potential replacement names for hundreds of geographic features in three dozen states that include the word "squaw." U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland in November formally declared the term derogatory and initiated a process to remove the term from use by the federal government and to replace other existing derogatory place names. The list was announced Tuesday and includes sites in New Mexico, Arizona, California and many other states. The agency will host virtual meetings to consult with tribes in March. A task force will prioritize the replacement names and make recommendations to the Board on Geographic Names before it meets later this year.

BALLOON FIESTA-FAA RULE
Albuquerque balloon fiesta seeks waiver of FAA tracking rule
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Organizers of Albuquerque's international balloon fiesta are seeking a waiver from federal aviation officials, saying a requirement that aircraft have specific tracking technology could affect the annual event. The Federal Aviation Administration rule affects most of the airspace above New Mexico's largest city. The agency granted a waiver for last year's fiesta, and event officials tell the Albuquerque Journal they are seeking a similar exemption for this year's 50th anniversary celebration. Balloonists say the rule remains a problem as it prevents passengers from getting expansive views from higher flights and bars pilots from more scenic locations such as the Rio Grande.

OIL PENALTIES
Companies face penalties for well violations in New Mexico
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — State oil and gas regulators have issued notices to two companies for violating their permits for wastewater injection wells in southeastern New Mexico. The Oil Conservation Division said Tuesday that the civil penalties include more than $2 million against XTO Permian Operating for violations at four wells, and $7,200 against Mewbourne Oil Company for violations at one well. Division officials said the violations undermine their ability to ensure that wastewater disposal wells are properly constructed. The state updated its guidelines last year following an increase in seismic activity in the Permian Basin that was believed to be associated with injection wells.

SCHOOL SECURITY GUARD-SEXUAL ABUSE
Ex-Las Vegas school guard pleads guilty to student sex abuse
LAS VEGAS, N.M. (AP) — A former Las Vegas, New Mexico, school security guard has pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a female student. The Las Vegas Optic reports 53-year-old Abran Ulibarri pleaded guilty Monday to criminal sexual penetration of a minor, three counts of false imprisonment, criminal solicitation to commit tampering with evidence and bribery of a witness. Attorney General Hector Balderas announced the agreement, commending the 14-year-old victim for coming forward. Las Vegas police initially investigated the allegations but then the state took over. Investigators say Ulibarri and the girl, a student at West Las Vegas Middle School, had a sexual relationship for months in 2019 Ulibarri faces up to 10 years in prison.

ALBUQUERQUE-OVERNIGHT CRIME SPREE
Albuquerque police search for suspect in violent crime spree
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Albuquerque police say a man accused of a trail of crimes including home invasions, car jackings and three kidnappings remains on the loose. Authorities say the suspect went on a crime spree beginning late Sunday night near Elm Street and Thaxton Avenue. The man allegedly broke into a home and forced a woman to drive with him in her car. He then left her at another home where he opened fire and fled in a vehicle from there. He is accused of then abducting two women in their car from a gas station. They were later found. They say the man then broke into a third home and took a car there.

PANDEMIC AID BIDS CANCELED
Las Cruces cancels results of bidding for pandemic aid funds
LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) — City officials in Las Cruces have canceled results of a process that solicited bids from organizations seeking federal pandemic aid, after an audit found procurement code violations and inconsistent project eligibility practices. The Las Cruces Sun News reports that a Feb. 17 email to bidders said the selection process had been canceled in the "best interest of the city." But the newspaper says the City Council still can act Tuesday to approve funding to nine recommended projects chosen from among 21 bidders. The newspaper says a city Internal Audit Office report in January found multiple procurement violations and little documentation from panel members since bidding began in September. 

CHURCH PASTOR-SEX CRIMES ARREST
Pastor, teacher from Vegas held as child sex case fugitive
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A 59-year-old church pastor and former elementary school teacher from Las Vegas has been arrested in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on a warrant accusing him of sex crimes involving children. The Albuquerque Journal reports that Reynaldo Crespin was arrested Saturday and jailed pending an extradition hearing and his transfer in custody to Nevada. Court records in Las Vegas show that Crespin was named in a warrant issued Feb. 10 on multiple charges including sexual assault against children under ages 16 and 14. Reports in Las Vegas identify Crespin as a second-grade teacher from 2016 until this month and a pastor at New Horizon Christian Church.

AP-NM-ALBUQUERQUE POLICE STAFFING
Albuquerque police officers shifting to a 12-hour schedule
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Police officers in Albuquerque are shifting to a 12-hour schedule to help increase staffing levels on patrol. Police Chief Harold Medina tells Albuquerque TV station KRQE that the vast majority of officers support the 12-hour shift. As of December, the Albuquerque Police Department had 926 officers. The department has had a budgeted goal of 1,140 sworn-in officers since Mayor Tim Keller took office in 2016 when there were 833 officers. The department has 1,000 police officers last year. Keller made it a campaign promise that he would try and hire 100 officers every year of his term.  

EASTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY-PRESIDENT
Eastern New Mexico University searching for next president
PORTALES, N.M. (AP) — The president of Eastern New Mexico University has announced plans to retire this summer. Patrice Caldwell has spent more than four decades working for the university. She started as a faculty member, and served in various department leadership roles before becoming president. Caldwell told the Board of Regents on Friday that she will retire on July 1. The board says it already has started a nationwide search for her replacement. Nearly 5,000 students were enrolled at the university's main campus in Portales last fall. The university also has campuses in Ruidoso and Roswell.

NEW MEXICO-FREE COLLEGE
New Mexico to fund free college for more students this fall
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico is expected to expand one of the country's most generous free college programs for nearly all adults. The state Legislature has planned $75 million to fund the program for a year in a bill expected to be signed into law by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. The "Opportunity Scholarship" is intended to help adults return to college if they couldn't finish in the past. If the funding is expended beyond a year, the program's broad eligibility would make it possible for people to move to New Mexico, establish residency, and get a free degree. The program covers fees and allows students to use federal grants for living expenses.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation maintains mask mandate as New Mexico drops it
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation says it will maintain a mask mandate even as the last of the states around it dropped the requirement. The tribe implemented a mask mandate early on in the pandemic to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Residents and visitors on the reservation that extends into New Mexico, Utah and Arizona are required to wear masks in public. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham made a surprise announcement Thursday to lift the state's mask mandate. Utah's requirement for most public settings was short-lived. Arizona never had a statewide mask mandate.

UNDERSHERIFF WON'T BE PROSECUTED
Prosecutor: Agreement dismisses charge against undersheriff
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A special prosecutor says a northern New Mexico senior sheriff's official has agreed to retire in exchange for dismissal of a felony charge accusing him of ordering deputies to draw their guns against other officers. The charge accusing Rio Arriba County Undersheriff Martin Ray Trjujillo of solicitation to commit aggravated assault upon a police officer was dismissed Monday. Prosecutor Andrea Reeb said it can be refiled if Trujillo doesn't retire at the end of February as agreed. The 2020 incident in which Trujillo was charged involved a confrontation involving then-Sheriff James Lujan and officers attempting to seize his cellphone for an investigation.

CHACO-OIL AND GAS
US land managers to host meetings on Chaco protection plan
FARMINGTON, N.M. (AP) — Federal officials have scheduled a series of public meetings to gather comments on the U.S. Interior Department's proposal to limit oil and gas development on federal land surrounding Chaco Culture National Historic Park. Two in-person meetings will be held Wednesday in Farmington. A virtual meeting will follow Thursday evening. It's part of a process that aims to withdraw federal land holdings within 10 miles of the park boundary, making the area off-limits to oil and gas leasing for 20 years. New leases on federal land in the area will be halted for the next two years while the withdrawal proposal is considered.

AP-NM-ALBUQUERQUE POLICE STAFFING
Albuquerque police officers shifting to a 12-hour schedule
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Police officers in Albuquerque are shifting to a 12-hour schedule to help increase staffing levels on patrol. Police Chief Harold Medina tells Albuquerque TV station KRQE that the vast majority of officers support the 12-hour shift. As of December, the Albuquerque Police Department had 926 officers. The department has had a budgeted goal of 1,140 sworn-in officers since Mayor Tim Keller took office in 2016 when there were 833 officers. The department has 1,000 police officers last year. Keller made it a campaign promise that he would try and hire 100 officers every year of his term.  

EASTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY-PRESIDENT
Eastern New Mexico University searching for next president
PORTALES, N.M. (AP) — The president of Eastern New Mexico University has announced plans to retire this summer. Patrice Caldwell has spent more than four decades working for the university. She started as a faculty member, and served in various department leadership roles before becoming president. Caldwell told the Board of Regents on Friday that she will retire on July 1. The board says it already has started a nationwide search for her replacement. Nearly 5,000 students were enrolled at the university's main campus in Portales last fall. The university also has campuses in Ruidoso and Roswell.

NEW MEXICO-FREE COLLEGE
New Mexico to fund free college for more students this fall
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico is expected to expand one of the country's most generous free college programs for nearly all adults. The state Legislature has planned $75 million to fund the program for a year in a bill expected to be signed into law by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. The "Opportunity Scholarship" is intended to help adults return to college if they couldn't finish in the past. If the funding is expended beyond a year, the program's broad eligibility would make it possible for people to move to New Mexico, establish residency, and get a free degree. The program covers fees and allows students to use federal grants for living expenses.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation maintains mask mandate as New Mexico drops it
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation says it will maintain a mask mandate even as the last of the states around it dropped the requirement. The tribe implemented a mask mandate early on in the pandemic to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Residents and visitors on the reservation that extends into New Mexico, Utah and Arizona are required to wear masks in public. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham made a surprise announcement Thursday to lift the state's mask mandate. Utah's requirement for most public settings was short-lived. Arizona never had a statewide mask mandate.

UNDERSHERIFF WON'T BE PROSECUTED
Prosecutor: Agreement dismisses charge against undersheriff
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A special prosecutor says a northern New Mexico senior sheriff's official has agreed to retire in exchange for dismissal of a felony charge accusing him of ordering deputies to draw their guns against other officers. The charge accusing Rio Arriba County Undersheriff Martin Ray Trjujillo of solicitation to commit aggravated assault upon a police officer was dismissed Monday. Prosecutor Andrea Reeb said it can be refiled if Trujillo doesn't retire at the end of February as agreed. The 2020 incident in which Trujillo was charged involved a confrontation involving then-Sheriff James Lujan and officers attempting to seize his cellphone for an investigation.

CHACO-OIL AND GAS
US land managers to host meetings on Chaco protection plan
FARMINGTON, N.M. (AP) — Federal officials have scheduled a series of public meetings to gather comments on the U.S. Interior Department's proposal to limit oil and gas development on federal land surrounding Chaco Culture National Historic Park. Two in-person meetings will be held Wednesday in Farmington. A virtual meeting will follow Thursday evening. It's part of a process that aims to withdraw federal land holdings within 10 miles of the park boundary, making the area off-limits to oil and gas leasing for 20 years. New leases on federal land in the area will be halted for the next two years while the withdrawal proposal is considered.

BC-US-BORDER-AGENCY-NEW-LEADER
Border agency chief faces challenges from within and outside
YUMA, Ariz. (AP) — Chris Magnus has many challenges to overcome in his new role as commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Among them are agent discontent, allegations of migrant mistreatment, a failure to recruit more women and an asylum system that many view as broken. In an interview with The Associated Press, Magnus acknowledged morale problems within the nation's largest law enforcement agency but offered no quick answers to the heavy migration flow to the U.S., which attracts more asylum seekers than any other country. Magnus might seem like an unconventional pick. As police chief in Tucson, Arizona, he rejected federal grants to collaborate on border security with the agency he now leads and kept a distance from Border Patrol leaders.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico governor lifts state's indoor mask mandate
Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has lifted the state's mask mandate for indoor public spaces. She made the surprise announcement at a news conference Thursday that followed the end of the 30-day legislative session. She cited reduced COVID-19 risk. Washington's governor also announced that state's mandate would be lifted for most places. Until now, New Mexico and Hawaii were the only states that had yet to set a date for lifting their mandates. While cases in New Mexico have been declining, state health officials said masks will still be required in hospitals and other congregate care settings such as nursing homes.

EASTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY-PRESIDENT
Eastern New Mexico University searching for next president
PORTALES, N.M. (AP) — The president of Eastern New Mexico University has announced plans to retire this summer. Patrice Caldwell has spent more than four decades working for the university. She started as a faculty member, and served in various department leadership roles before becoming president. Caldwell told the Board of Regents on Friday that she will retire on July 1. The board says it already has started a nationwide search for her replacement. Nearly 5,000 students were enrolled at the university's main campus in Portales last fall. The university also has campuses in Ruidoso and Roswell.

NEW MEXICO-FREE COLLEGE
New Mexico to fund free college for more students this fall
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico is expected to expand one of the country's most generous free college programs for nearly all adults. The state Legislature has planned $75 million to fund the program for a year in a bill expected to be signed into law by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. The "Opportunity Scholarship" is intended to help adults return to college if they couldn't finish in the past. If the funding is expended beyond a year, the program's broad eligibility would make it possible for people to move to New Mexico, establish residency, and get a free degree. The program covers fees and allows students to use federal grants for living expenses.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NAVAJO NATION
Navajo Nation maintains mask mandate as New Mexico drops it
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation says it will maintain a mask mandate even as the last of the states around it dropped the requirement. The tribe implemented a mask mandate early on in the pandemic to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Residents and visitors on the reservation that extends into New Mexico, Utah and Arizona are required to wear masks in public. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham made a surprise announcement Thursday to lift the state's mask mandate. Utah's requirement for most public settings was short-lived. Arizona never had a statewide mask mandate.

UNDERSHERIFF WON'T BE PROSECUTED
Prosecutor: Agreement dismisses charge against undersheriff
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A special prosecutor says a northern New Mexico senior sheriff's official has agreed to retire in exchange for dismissal of a felony charge accusing him of ordering deputies to draw their guns against other officers. The charge accusing Rio Arriba County Undersheriff Martin Ray Trjujillo of solicitation to commit aggravated assault upon a police officer was dismissed Monday. Prosecutor Andrea Reeb said it can be refiled if Trujillo doesn't retire at the end of February as agreed. The 2020 incident in which Trujillo was charged involved a confrontation involving then-Sheriff James Lujan and officers attempting to seize his cellphone for an investigation.

CHACO-OIL AND GAS
US land managers to host meetings on Chaco protection plan
FARMINGTON, N.M. (AP) — Federal officials have scheduled a series of public meetings to gather comments on the U.S. Interior Department's proposal to limit oil and gas development on federal land surrounding Chaco Culture National Historic Park. Two in-person meetings will be held Wednesday in Farmington. A virtual meeting will follow Thursday evening. It's part of a process that aims to withdraw federal land holdings within 10 miles of the park boundary, making the area off-limits to oil and gas leasing for 20 years. New leases on federal land in the area will be halted for the next two years while the withdrawal proposal is considered.

BC-US-BORDER-AGENCY-NEW-LEADER
Border agency chief faces challenges from within and outside
YUMA, Ariz. (AP) — Chris Magnus has many challenges to overcome in his new role as commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Among them are agent discontent, allegations of migrant mistreatment, a failure to recruit more women and an asylum system that many view as broken. In an interview with The Associated Press, Magnus acknowledged morale problems within the nation's largest law enforcement agency but offered no quick answers to the heavy migration flow to the U.S., which attracts more asylum seekers than any other country. Magnus might seem like an unconventional pick. As police chief in Tucson, Arizona, he rejected federal grants to collaborate on border security with the agency he now leads and kept a distance from Border Patrol leaders.

VIRUS OUTBREAK-NEW MEXICO
New Mexico governor lifts state's indoor mask mandate
Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has lifted the state's mask mandate for indoor public spaces. She made the surprise announcement at a news conference Thursday that followed the end of the 30-day legislative session. She cited reduced COVID-19 risk. Washington's governor also announced that state's mandate would be lifted for most places. Until now, New Mexico and Hawaii were the only states that had yet to set a date for lifting their mandates. While cases in New Mexico have been declining, state health officials said masks will still be required in hospitals and other congregate care settings such as nursing homes.

SOLAR SHORTAGE-NEW MEXICO
Solar project delays create hurdles for New Mexico utility
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A utility in sun-drenched New Mexico is struggling to get enough solar-generated electricity as it prepares to shut down a coal-fired power plant amid supply chain disruptions. Utility executives say they have a plan to ensure adequate supplies to feed air conditioners and avoid rolling blackouts during peak demands this summer. If approved by regulators, one unit at the San Juan Generating Station slated to close in June would be kept running through September. Despite more pressure to reduce carbon emissions and tackle climate change, experts say many solar projects around the world risk delays or cancellation due to rising material and shipping costs.