Former Apd Officer Admits Guilt in Dwi Bribery Scheme
Significant Developments in DWI Deception Case
In a striking turn of events, retired Albuquerque Police Department (APD) officer Timothy McCarson has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to a widespread DWI deception scheme involving law enforcement officials across New Mexico. The plea, made on December 15, 2025, exposes a troubling chapter in the state’s efforts to combat driving while intoxicated (DWI) incidents.
Details of the Guilty Plea
McCarson, who served in the specialized DWI unit of the APD since 2011, admitted to participating in a bribery arrangement that began around 2015. Court documents reveal that McCarson accepted payments, including a notable $5,000 in 2021, to facilitate the dismissal of DWI cases by failing to appear in court. As part of the plea agreement, he faces a recommended sentence of up to 46 months in prison, with a judge set to determine the final sentencing.
Background of the DWI Deception Scandal
The DWI deception scheme has raised serious concerns regarding the integrity of law enforcement in New Mexico. Officers from various agencies, including the APD and the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, were implicated in accepting bribes to skip court hearings, effectively allowing numerous DWI cases to be dismissed. This corruption scandal has been unfolding since early 2025, leading to multiple guilty pleas from various officers and attorneys involved.
Key Figures and Other Pleas
Among the notable figures in the scandal is attorney Thomas Clear III, who has been identified as a central orchestrator and pleaded guilty earlier in the investigation. Other individuals linked to this corruption include attorneys and paralegals, with at least seven APD officers, including McCarson, admitting their roles in the scheme. The breadth of the scandal underscores systemic issues within the law enforcement community in New Mexico.
Implications for DWI Enforcement in New Mexico
New Mexico has consistently faced challenges with high DWI rates, often ranking among the highest in the nation for alcohol-related driving fatalities. The fallout from this scandal threatens to undermine public trust in the state’s DWI enforcement efforts, which are essential for ensuring road safety. The ongoing federal investigation, which has involved extensive interviews and documentation, suggests that significant reforms may be necessary within the APD and other law enforcement agencies.
Legal Consequences and Continuing Investigations
As the investigation continues, participants in the scheme are facing serious legal repercussions, including charges of extortion and bribery. The federal case has prompted the APD to implement various accountability measures, including the reassignment and resignation of implicated officers. This situation highlights the critical need for transparency and reform in law enforcement practices throughout New Mexico.
