AG: New Mexico Press Releases

AG Joins Lawsuit Against DOJ Over Victim Services Funding Restrictions

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, along with 21 other attorneys general, has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice. The suit challenges new restrictions on federal funding, such as VOCA and Byrne JAG grants, that would prevent services to undocumented immigrants. The lawsuit seeks to block these restrictions, arguing they are unconstitutional and violate the Administrative Procedure Act.

AG Torrez Wins Lawsuit Against Trump Administration's VOCA Grant Conditions

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez announced a victory in a multi-state lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice. The DOJ has dropped its plan to impose illegal conditions on nearly $1.4 billion in Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) grants, which would have required states to assist with immigration enforcement. The ruling ensures that critical funding for crime victims will continue to be distributed based on statutory formulas.

First Circuit Upholds Birthright Citizenship Ruling Against Executive Order

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit upheld a lower court's injunction blocking President Trump's executive order that sought to end birthright citizenship. The ruling affirmed that the President lacks the authority to unilaterally alter constitutional principles.

New Mexico AG Urges Online Child Protection Legislation

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez issued a statement supporting California's new online child protection laws and urging New Mexico legislators to adopt similar measures. The statement highlights the need for age verification, suicide and self-harm protocols, and penalties for illegal deepfakes to protect children online.

AG Torrez Recovers $1.5M from Ex-NMPD Officer in Fraud Scheme

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez announced the recovery of over $1.5 million from former State Police Officer Morgan Ortiz and Dr. Keith Levitt. The defendants pleaded guilty to felony charges including Medicaid Fraud, Identity Theft, and Practicing Medicine Without a License related to a substance abuse recovery scheme.

New Mexico DOJ Arrests Human Trafficker Preying on Minor

The New Mexico Department of Justice announced the arrest of Pete Guevara on charges of human trafficking and trafficking controlled substances. Guevara is accused of exploiting a 17-year-old runaway minor to sell narcotics. The investigation was initiated following a tip from a family advocacy group.

New Mexico AG Announces Maximum Sentence for Ax Threat and Attempted Murder

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez announced that John Karl O’Brien was sentenced to the maximum of 10.5 years in prison for attempted first-degree murder and threatening a judge with an ax. The sentence was handed down by the Cibola County District Court on October 23, 2025.

JustFab Settlement for Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, alongside 34 other states, secured a $4.8 million settlement with online fashion retailer TechStyle, Inc. (JustFab). The settlement addresses allegations of unfair and deceptive trade practices, including misrepresenting prices, automatic enrollment in membership programs, and difficult cancellation policies. The company must reform its business practices and provide restitution to affected consumers.

AG Demands Answers on SNAP Funding Lapse

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, joined by 23 other attorneys general, has demanded answers from the USDA regarding potential lapses in SNAP funding due to the federal government shutdown. The letter expresses grave concern over the potential harm to millions of Americans, including children, seniors, and veterans, who rely on these benefits.

New Mexico DOJ Notifies Otero County Commission of Open Meetings Act Violation

The New Mexico Department of Justice has notified the Otero County Commission of an Open Meetings Act violation. The Commission improperly convened an emergency meeting to renew a contract with ICE, and the Department has deemed the action invalid. The Commission has been directed to outline steps for compliance.