Digital Assignment Editor
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —
A former Bernalillo County sheriff deputy involved in the ongoing DWI corruption investigation has been indicted.
A federal jury has now returned an indictment charging former Bernalillo County sheriff’s deputy Paul Jessen, Jr., with using his official position to further a long-running scheme involving the dismissal of DWI cases in New Mexico.
Court documents allege that between March 2018 and January 2024, Jessen, who was convicted earlier this year of obstructing a Drug Enforcement Administration investigation and making false statements to the FBI, conspired with attorney Thomas J. Clear III and his paralegal, Ricardo Mendez, to help DWI offenders avoid criminal and administrative penalties related to their DWI arrests.
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In exchange for items of value, Jessen allegedly failed to appear at required criminal settings for DWI offenders who retained Clear, knowing his absence would allow Clear to seek dismissal of the proceedings.
Court documents also allege that Jessen expressed concerns to a co-conspirator, who was a senior BCSO Deputy, about accepting cash payments for his participation in the scheme, so he agreed to accept gifts instead, including a Pit Boss grill and smoker, a Sharp large-screen television, Craftsman tools and a toolbox.
Jessen also allegedly received free legal services, including representation while he was under investigation for tipping off DEA targets, as well as alcohol, hotel rooms, and other benefits during the course of the scheme.
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He is charged with conspiracy to commit interference with commerce by extortion under color of official right. If convicted, Jessen faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment.
Thirteen people, including Clear and Mendez, have pleaded guilty to federal charges stemming from their involvement in the conspiracy.
