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Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Cop-on-Spokesman Fight Alleged at Fest
By Rozanna M. Martinez
Journal Staff Writer
State Police are investigating an alleged assault against a Rio Rancho police spokesman by a Bernalillo police officer at a local wine festival on Sunday.
Rio Rancho Police Chief Bob Boone said his spokesman John Francis was working in plain clothes at the New Mexico Wine Festival at Bernalillo, looking for underage drinking and other liquor violations when he encountered a group arguing. Francis and another Rio Rancho police officer, who also was in plain clothes, approached the group and motioned for uniformed officers to intervene, Boone said.
Police from various jurisdictions typically work the festival as part of a DWI assignment.
Bernalillo police officer Anthony Ortega allegedly turned his attention toward Francis and put him in an arm lock maneuver. Francis attempted to identify himself as a police officer, but a "conflict" ensued, Boone said.
"I'm sure (Ortega) knew who he was and I don't understand why he would turn his attention toward John (Francis)," Boone said.
Francis referred comment to Boone and the Bernalillo Police Department.
Acting Bernalillo Police Chief Lt. Chris Stoyell said he went to speak with Francis and Ortega, and Ortega told him that he was unaware Francis was working at the wine festival. Ortega said he thought Francis had been involved in a fight with one of the men in the group.
Stoyell said Ortega, who has been with the department for five years, then placed Francis in an arm hold and asked him to step back. Some State Police officers witnessed the incident and separated Francis and Ortega.
Francis, who has been with the Rio Rancho police department for more than 20 years, requested that a criminal investigation be done. Stoyell said the case has been referred to State Police.
In cases such as this, State Police can decide whether to file charges or whether to refer the matter to the District Attorney's Office, according to State Police spokesman Peter Olson. The department is currently conducting witness interviews.
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