Ricardo "Rick" Mendez, a central figure in a long-running DWI bribery scheme, appeared in a federal Albuquerque courtroom on Monday for a status hearing. U.S. District Judge David Urias set a sentencing date for Mendez in May 2027, aiming to expedite the legal process following a lengthy investigation into public corruption.

How the DWI bribery scheme worked

The racketeering enterprise, which began as early as 2008, relied on a network of law enforcement and legal professionals to bypass the justice system. According to court records, the scheme operated through the following methods:

  • Officers from the Albuquerque Police Department, New Mexico State Police, and the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office would pull over suspected drunk drivers.
  • These officers allegedly referred suspects to the office of attorney Thomas Clear III.
  • Mendez, acting as a coordinator, promised offenders that their charges would be dismissed if they paid thousands of dollars.
  • The resulting funds were reportedly split between the attorney, Mendez, and the participating officers.

What is the current status of the case?

Judge Urias expressed frustration with the slow pace of the prosecution. The investigation was originally triggered in 2023 after DWI suspects reported being extorted or propositioned by officers. Prosecutors noted that the discovery process has been unusually massive because the FBI investigated hundreds of individual cases.

Mendez’s attorney, Wayne Baker, requested a later date in July, citing the need to review a "voluminous" amount of evidence. However, the judge moved the timeline forward to May. Baker also addressed questions regarding Mendez's recent international travel, stating his client traveled for a family matter and has since returned.

FAQ

Who else is involved in this corruption case?

Former Albuquerque Police Officer Honorio Alba Jr. is also facing sentencing, which has been scheduled for April 2027. Attorney Thomas Clear III is also central to the investigation, though his sentencing date has not been finalized.

What happens during the May sentencing?

During the sentencing, the judge will determine the punishment for Mendez based on federal guidelines. While his attorney noted there are no mandatory minimum sentences in this specific case, Mendez faces potential prison time.