Albuquerque Man Charged With Federal Crimes After Gun Incident During Traffic Stop
Incident Overview
On November 12, Jason Baca, a 36-year-old man from Albuquerque, was involved in a serious incident that has led to multiple federal charges. During a traffic stop conducted by Bernalillo County Sheriff’s deputies as part of Operation Triple Beam, deputies attempted to arrest Baca, who had an outstanding felony warrant related to drug trafficking. The situation escalated when Baca allegedly pointed a firearm at the deputies, resulting in a shooting that critically injured him.
Details of the Traffic Stop
The traffic stop occurred around 4:45 PM after deputies noticed invalid vehicle registration. Upon identifying Baca as a passenger, they discovered his felony warrant for selling fentanyl—a serious concern given the ongoing fentanyl crisis in Albuquerque. As deputies moved to arrest him, they observed a concealed weapon in his waistband, prompting them to call for additional units due to Baca’s erratic behavior.
Escalation and Shooting
As deputies attempted to apprehend Baca, he fled on foot and pointed the firearm at the officers. This prompted a deputy to shout, “gun, gun, gun,” leading to the deputies firing at Baca, who was subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment of his injuries. A loaded gun was recovered at the scene, further complicating his legal situation as a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law.
Federal Charges and Potential Sentencing
Baca now faces serious federal charges including possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, assault on a federal officer, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. If convicted, he could face a life sentence, particularly if found guilty of the brandishing charge, which carries a minimum of 7 years in addition to any other sentences. He remains in custody pending an unscheduled trial.
Context of Operation Triple Beam
Operation Triple Beam is a collaborative initiative involving U.S. Marshals and local law enforcement aimed at apprehending violent criminals and fugitives. This particular operation in Albuquerque sought to target high-risk individuals, and the recent incident underscores the dangers involved in such law enforcement efforts.
Impact of the Fentanyl Crisis
The incident highlights the ongoing fentanyl crisis affecting Albuquerque and New Mexico as a whole. Reports indicate that the region faces one of the highest per capita overdose rates in the United States, with over 700 overdose deaths recorded in 2024 alone. The recent stop revealed a backpack containing fentanyl pills and powder, linking Baca’s actions to the broader issues of drug trafficking and public safety.
Legal and Community Implications
This incident raises critical questions regarding police use of force and the handling of armed individuals with felony backgrounds. As the community grapples with the implications of such events, the focus remains on the balance between public safety and the rights of individuals involved in these high-stakes situations.
