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Phoenix police: No 'signs of foul play' in death of James Hallinan
SANTA FE — Phoenix police say they are investigating the death of New Mexico political consultant James Hallinan but saw no signs of foul play.
Hallinan, 40, died last week in Phoenix, where he owned a home.
In an interview this week, Phoenix police Sgt. Phil Krynsky said officers consider it a “death investigation,” not a homicide, at this point.
“It doesn’t appear there’s any signs of foul play,” he said.
The medical examiner, not police, will determine the cause of death, Krynsky said.
Hallinan was a political consultant and spokesman for some of the most prominent Democrats in New Mexico over the last decade. He had worked for then-Attorney General Hector Balderas and, in 2018, for Michelle Lujan Grisham’s successful gubernatorial campaign.
He later accused Lujan Grisham of misconduct — grabbing his crotch and laughing during a campaign meeting. She vigorously denied the allegations.
The campaign eventually reached a $150,000 settlement with Hallinan to resolve his allegations — a matter that emerged as an issue in Lujan Grisham’s reelection campaign last year.
Hallinan’s family announced his death last week. A cause hasn’t been released.
“With much sadness we share that our beloved and brilliant brother and son James Hallinan died on Thursday, July 20, 2023,” his sister Marisa said in a Facebook post.
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“At this time of deep sadness and mourning we thank you for your conveyed sentiments and support.”
