License Plate Reader Alerts Police
On November 21, 2023, a license plate reader system near Albuquerque, New Mexico, alerted State Police about a vehicle suspected of harboring a fugitive. This fugitive allegedly shot four of his neighbors over a property line dispute.
Identification and Pursuit
Officers followed the vehicle, identified the driver as the fugitive, and noted an unknown passenger. The vehicle entered the westbound lanes of Interstate 40, where additional State Police and the US Marshal Service assisted.
Stop Stick Deployment
Undercover and unmarked police vehicles tailed the suspect. Stop sticks were set up at multiple locations to stop the vehicle. However, miscommunication led to the wrong vehicle being targeted initially, and the fugitive avoided the stop sticks at the 126 exit.
Felony Stop Execution
Eventually, officers decided to perform a felony stop. They successfully stopped the vehicle, and both the driver and passenger exited without further incident.
Arrest and Charges
The male suspect was cooperative during the arrest. Officers found a firearm under the driver’s seat, which was left in the vehicle for later inspection. The male suspect, once an MMA fighter dubbed “The Ruiner,” faces three counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, one count of first-degree assault with a deadly weapon, and one count of attempted first-degree assault with a deadly weapon. He remains in jail with a $2 million cash-only bond.
Female Passenger’s Condition
The female passenger, who has a severe medical condition causing seizures, was also arrested and charged with five counts of accessory to a crime. She was released on a $100,000 cash-only bond and assigned a new caregiver.
Background of the Incident
The shooting occurred in Kuster County, Colorado, over a property dispute. The suspect allegedly shot his neighbors during an argument about trespassing. The dispute revolved around an easement issue, as the neighbors used his property to access roadways.
Post-Arrest Developments
Following the arrest, it was revealed that the male suspect had been assaulted in jail, prompting his lawyers to request a transfer. The case is ongoing, with both suspects facing serious charges related to the incident.
Importance of Transparency
This case highlights the importance of transparency in police operations. The meticulous documentation and release of body cam footage provide the public with an unbiased account of the events that transpired during the apprehension of the suspects.
