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Robert E. Robles Appears To Want To Stay On Bench
State Appeals Court Judge Robert E. Robles issued a statement on Thursday, apologizing for his “inappropriate behavior” the day after he was arrested on suspicion of aggravated DWI in Northeast Albuquerque.
In the statement, which was released by Robles’ campaign manager from the November election, the longtime New Mexico jurist appeared to signal that he would like to keep his seat on the Court of Appeals bench.
“I ask the citizens of New Mexico to consider this apology as only the first indication of my profound remorse, complete acceptance of my actions, and commitment to do my best to restore your confidence in me as your public servant,” the statement reads.
Shortly after 1 a.m. Tuesday, an APD officer saw Robles, 60, run through a red light at the Interstate 25 frontage road and Jefferson NE at about 50 mph without slowing down, according to a criminal complaint. The officer had to drive up onto a sidewalk to avoid a collision.
Breath test results showed Robles’ blood-alcohol concentration at or above 0.16 percent — more than twice the state’s presumed level of intoxication, according to the complaint.
Robles was charged with aggravated DWI and booked into the Metropolitan Detention Center after his arrest. He was released on his own recognizance later Wednesday, according to court and jail records.
“I sincerely apologize to my family, to the citizens of New Mexico, to the members of the New Mexico Court of Appeals and to the entire New Mexico Judiciary for my recent personal actions,” Robles said in the statement. “I made an egregious error in judgment that resulted in painful consequences to those who place their trust in me. With the support of my family, I am seeking professional help to assist me in addressing personal issues which resulted in my inappropriate behavior. I hope to mend, as best as I can, the pain that I have caused my family, friends and colleagues, in accepting the consequences of my actions.”
Robles has taken a voluntary unpaid leave of absence from the Appeals Court. He also self-reported his arrest to the state Judicial Standards Commission, which will review the case.
