Sandoval County Judge to Issue Bench Warrant for Suspect Accused of Vandalizing License Plate Cameras in Rio Rancho
A Sandoval County judge plans to issue a bench warrant for Jevon Martinez, who is accused of vandalizing license plate cameras in Rio Rancho. Martinez appeared in Sandoval County District Court to face charges of larceny, criminal damage to property, and tampering with evidence. During the court proceedings, Martinez challenged the court's authority, stating he was making a 'special appearance, not a general appearance,' and argued that his court-appointed attorney, Pamala Sullivan, could not speak on his behalf without his permission. Judge Christopher Perez warned Martinez that leaving the courtroom would result in a failure-to-appear warrant. Despite this warning, Martinez left the courtroom before his arraignment could be completed. Police allege that Martinez destroyed three Flock license plate reader cameras in Rio Rancho earlier this year, replacing them with a sign that read, 'You’re welcome, Republic of New Mexico.' As of Monday, court records indicated the warrant had not yet been formally filed.
