New Mexico DOJ Arrests Human Trafficker Preying on Minor

AG: New Mexico Press Releases

Filed October 16th, 2025

Detected March 21st, 2026

Summary

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.

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What changed

The New Mexico Department of Justice, through its Special Investigations Bureau, has arrested Pete Guevara and charged him with human trafficking and trafficking controlled substances. The charges stem from allegations that Guevara exploited a 17-year-old runaway minor, forcing her to sell narcotics for his benefit. The investigation, which began in June 2025 after a tip from Casa De Luz, is ongoing and could result in a combined penalty of 12 years in prison if Guevara is convicted of the third- and second-degree felonies.

This enforcement action highlights the risks faced by vulnerable runaway minors and the potential for exploitation by traffickers. Law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups are urged to remain vigilant in identifying and protecting such individuals. The arrest serves as a reminder of the severe penalties associated with human trafficking and drug offenses, particularly when minors are involved. Regulated entities involved in social services or law enforcement should ensure their protocols are robust for identifying and reporting potential exploitation.

What to do next

Review protocols for identifying and reporting potential exploitation of vulnerable minors.
Collaborate with law enforcement and advocacy groups on child protection initiatives.

Penalties

Combined penalty of 12 years in prison if convicted.

Source document (simplified)

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The New Mexico Department of Justice Arrests Human Trafficker Preying on Runaway Minor

October 16, 2025

Albuquerque, NM – Today, Human Trafficking Special Agents from the New Mexico Department of Justice’s Special Investigations Bureau arrested Pete Guevara and charged him with Human Trafficking and Trafficking Controlled Substances. Guevara is accused of trafficking a 17-year-old runaway, high risk minor, manipulating her into selling narcotics for him and using the money for his own benefit. The charges are third- and second-degree felonies, respectively and carry a combined penalty of 12 years in prison if convicted. The investigation is ongoing.

“Exploiting a vulnerable minor in this way is unconscionable,” said Attorney General Raúl Torrez. “I am proud of our agents for their tireless work investigating this case and for collaborating closely with our law enforcement partners to locate and protect this victim. Their dedication is one step closer to dismantling the networks that enable human trafficking in our communities and holding predators accountable for the harm they cause.”

In June of 2025 agents received a tip from a family advocacy group, Casa De Luz, in Socorro, NM about the minor being possibly victimized. A months-long investigation discovered that Guevara was consistently found with the runaway living on the streets of Albuquerque. The investigation has shown a possible sexual relationship and one where Guevara forced the minor to deal fentanyl drugs in exchange for her means to survive.

“At Casa de Luz, we know that many teens who run away from home are not just escaping a place — they’re searching for safety, understanding, and hope,” said JC Trujillo, Executive Director, Casa de Luz Family Advocacy Center. “Sadly, that search can make them targets for human traffickers who exploit their vulnerability. This case is a reminder that human trafficking can happen in any community, and that it takes all of us—families, neighbors, and local agencies—to protect our most vulnerable. We’re grateful to the New Mexico Department of Justice and our partners for their commitment to seeking justice and supporting survivors. Together, we can build a community where every child is safe, seen, and valued.”

“Runaways are a very vulnerable population, and our Human Trafficking Unit is dedicated to finding and keeping them safe. Today’s arrest is just the start of a new focus on unmasking those who seek to benefit or exploit our communities’ children,” said NMDOJ Director of Special Investigations Kyle Hartsock.

Guevara has been booked and detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center. A video of the perp-walk can be found HERE.