AG’s Anti-Cop Agenda Targets Officer as ‘Political Sacrifice’: National Police Association

The National Police Association is raising serious concerns about New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez and his actions against a Las Cruces police officer. They believe that Torrez, who they describe as a “George Soros backed” prosecutor, is unfairly targeting Officer Brad Lunsford. The NPA argues that Lunsford is being made into a “political sacrifice” for the anti-police movement.

Back in August 2022, Officer Lunsford and his partner responded to a theft at a gas station in Las Cruces. When they arrived, they decided the suspect needed to be detained, but the situation quickly escalated. The suspect resisted arrest and a struggle broke out, which led to Lunsford using his firearm.

The suspect, Presley Eze, allegedly resisted arrest violently, knocking down Lunsford’s partner and grabbing a taser. Faced with this threat, Lunsford fired his gun to protect himself and others. An investigation concluded that Officer Lunsford acted within the guidelines set by his department.

Despite these findings, Torrez has charged Lunsford with voluntary manslaughter. He claims that Lunsford’s actions were an “egregious abuse of power” and an example of poor police tactics. It’s a stance that has left many questioning the motivations behind the indictment.

Lunsford’s attorney, Matt Chandler, argues that his client didn’t receive a fair trial. He points out that two jurors were replaced with alternates, which he believes violated Lunsford’s right to an impartial jury. Chandler insists this issue alone should prompt a new trial.

In March, a judge acknowledged mistakes were made with the jury selection. The judge noted that the options were either to grant a new trial or deny it, which would lead to an appeal. This situation has added another layer of complexity to an already controversial case.

The NPA has reached out to Attorney General Pam Bondi, urging her to look into Torrez’s handling of the case. They want the Department of Justice to investigate whether Torrez committed civil rights abuses against Lunsford. The NPA argues that Lunsford is being pursued to satisfy a political ideology rather than justice.

“No officer should fear being made a political target when they’ve done nothing wrong,” the NPA emphasized. They argue that prosecutors shouldn’t feel they can target officers to enhance their own reputations. This sentiment echoes concerns about the broader implications for law enforcement.

Retired Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith, speaking for the NPA, has been vocal about the situation. She believes Lunsford is facing persecution, not justice. Smith emphasizes that Lunsford acted according to his training and is now facing legal consequences simply for wearing a badge.

Smith warns that this case is more than just about Lunsford. It sends a chilling message to officers nationwide: even following procedures and saving lives may not protect them from political agendas. This fear could undermine the confidence and effectiveness of police officers everywhere.

The office of Torrez and the DOJ have yet to comment on the situation, despite requests from Fox News Digital. The silence from these parties only adds to the uncertainty surrounding the case. It’s a situation that continues to unfold as the legal process moves forward.

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