NM State Police arrests one of its own for DWI

A New Mexico State Police officer has been placed on paid administrative leave after being arrested by one of his colleagues for allegedly driving drunk in Albuquerque early Sunday.

Edgar Madrid, 31, of Rio Rancho, is charged with aggravated driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, speeding and driving without a license or insurance.

Gilberto Juarez, Madrid’s attorney, said his client “maintains his innocence to this point.”

At about 1:30 a.m. Sunday, Madrid, who was off duty, was heading west on Interstate 40 near San Mateo in a black Dodge pickup when he was pulled over for going 90 mph in a 65 mph zone, according to a criminal complaint filed in Metropolitan Court. Police said Madrid had bloodshot, watery eyes and a strong odor of alcohol coming from inside the truck and his breath.

Madrid told the State Police officer who pulled him over that he had “at least one beer.” After performing field sobriety tests, Madrid was arrested.

“Madrid’s decision to drink and drive is in no way condoned by our department,” State Police Chief Troy Weisler said in a statement. “In fact, it was one of my officers who stopped and arrested him. I commend that officer for doing the right thing in a challenging situation and carrying out his duty.

Weisler said the department holds its officers “to the highest standard and those who do not meet those standards will be held accountable.”

“Immediately upon hearing of his arrest,” the chief said, “I placed Madrid on administrative leave and launched an internal investigation. His actions do not represent what it means to be a state police officer and he will be dealt with swiftly.”