Leigh Cleveland released ahead of Albuquerque trial under Bennie’s Law
Leigh Cleveland was released from custody pending her Albuquerque trial under Bennie’s Law. Judge Lucy Solimon ruled that the mother poses no danger to the public. State prosecutors had formally asked the court for Cleveland to stay behind bars.
Police say Cleveland’s 14-year-old son got a hold of her gun. The boy accidentally shot his friend. Officers searched the home and found three handguns that were not locked up. Cleveland is barred from possessing any guns under her release conditions.
In Santa Fe, crews reopened Jaguar Drive following repairs to a sinkhole. A driver found the sinkhole around 2:30 a.m. Thursday by driving into it. Water submerged most of the car. Crews rescued the driver safely without injury before pulling the car out at 3:30 a.m. Workers spent the day filling the hole caused by a busted water main.
Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story briefed lawmakers about department use of Flock Safety cameras. The license plate readers have faced scrutiny regarding data storage and agency sharing. Story said the 43 local cameras have helped improve city crime numbers.
The Las Cruces Police Department launched a public transparency portal regarding camera policies last month. Sandia Peak Ski Area announced expanded access plans for non-winter recreation near Albuquerque. The resort aims to welcome hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders across 20 cleared trail miles.
Volunteers helped clear those trails, and leaders outlined a five-year plan. Mild weather will continue through Saturday morning for Balloon Fiesta events. South ground winds and northeast winds aloft support favorable morning flight conditions.
Approaching remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel will bring weekend rain to western New Mexico. In other news, a man faces murder charges in San Juan County. A Japanese firm plans a quantum computing research center in New Mexico.
Pretrial release rules establish standard legal boundaries for defendants who await trial. State courts determine release conditions based on public safety risk and offense severity. Judges can revoke release if defendants violate any assigned court restrictions.
A Balloon crew chief shared operational experiences during Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. A Census Bureau report detailed graduation outcomes across New Mexico colleges. New Mexico residents receive free day use across 33 state parks. An Albuquerque eatery made a national list of top pasta places for 2026.
