The Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office issued a statement regarding the recent case involving Christina Escobedo Arraiga:
“According to the New Mexico Constitution, pretrial release is the standard procedure. Detention is only allowed in specific situations where the state can demonstrate, with clear and convincing evidence, that no set of release conditions can reasonably guarantee public safety or the defendant’s court appearance.
In this particular case, since the defendant has no prior criminal record and the criteria for pretrial detention are not currently met, the prosecution did not file a motion to detain.
Our office remains committed to moving the prosecution forward as quickly as legally possible. We offer our heartfelt condolences to everyone affected by this tragic event. The loss of two young lives is devastating, and we will seek justice to the fullest extent under the law.”
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Las Cruces, NM (KVIA) — Christina Escobedo Arraiga is scheduled for release later today from the Doña Ana County Detention Center on her own recognizance after appearing virtually before a judge.
Escobedo faces multiple charges connected to a fatal crash in Vado, New Mexico, that resulted in the deaths of two children aged 15 and 12. The charges include:
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Two counts of homicide by vehicle involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
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Two counts of intentional child abuse resulting in death
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One count of causing great bodily harm by vehicle while driving under the influence
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One count of child abuse causing great bodily harm
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One count of driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor
During the hearing, the judge emphasized the seriousness of the case and ordered that Escobedo be placed under level four supervision with an ankle monitor while the case proceeds. Given that this is her first criminal offense and that she has no record of failing to appear in court, she will be released on her own recognizance.
The court also imposed several conditions on her release, including a strict prohibition on alcohol consumption, a ban on returning to the crash site, a requirement to remain within Doña Ana County unless otherwise permitted, and an obligation to reside at the address provided to the court.
The case will continue to be closely monitored as the prosecution advances.
