Corruption Scandal Engulfs Albuquerque Defense Lawyer

News Summary

Albuquerque is rocked by allegations against defense attorney Rudolph ‘Rudy’ Chavez, who is accused of helping drunk drivers evade justice since 1995. The New Mexico disciplinary board has filed for his summary suspension, tied to a broader corruption investigation involving law enforcement and legal professionals. Disturbing evidence, including video footage and FBI findings, reveals unethical practices, prompting doubts about the integrity of the legal system in the region. This ongoing scandal raises concerns about the ethical standards among lawyers and law enforcement in Albuquerque.

Corruption Scandal Rocks Albuquerque: Defense Attorney Rudolph “Rudy” Chavez Under Fire

In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the legal community in Albuquerque, New Mexico, defense attorney Rudolph “Rudy” Chavez is facing serious allegations of participating in a long-standing scheme to aid drunk drivers in evading legal repercussions. This scandal, which dates back to 1995, has unveiled a web of corruption involving law enforcement, legal professionals, and a troubling history of unethical practices.

Investigation and Summary Suspension

As of March 6, 2025, the state’s chief disciplinary counsel filed a petition for Chavez’s summary suspension with the New Mexico Supreme Court, putting his legal career in jeopardy. The New Mexico disciplinary board has stated that Chavez is under investigation for alleged violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct. The allegations suggest that Chavez, in collusion with former Albuquerque Police Officer Honorio Alba, Jr. and paralegal Ricardo “Rick” Mendez, manipulated the legal proceedings surrounding DWI cases to lead to dismissals.

Details Emerge from Video Evidence

Investigations have uncovered compelling video evidence, with KRQE Investigates releasing a clip that captures a DWI stop by Alba in April 2023. The footage shows Alba arresting a driver whose blood alcohol content was recorded at 0.14 and 0.15. Alarmingly, this driver had two prior DWI convictions and was also facing charges of reckless driving, lack of insurance, and open container violations. The driver turned to Chavez for legal representation after discovering him through an online search, paying an astounding $8,000 for what he believed to be a reasonable fee given the complexity of his case.

In January 2024, the driver was stunned when his case was dismissed “in the interest of justice,” a turn of events he initially attributed to pure luck. However, his relief turned to confusion when contacted later by the FBI regarding the unfolding investigation.

The FBI’s Findings

Federal investigators have revealed disturbing insights into the procedural manipulation that marked Chavez’s practice. Many clients were reportedly kept uninformed, while law enforcement officers frequently seized driver’s licenses and emails to facilitate their illicit scheme. Mendez collaborated with Defense Attorney Thomas Clear III, who had his law license revoked for being a key player in this sordid enterprise. The duo would negotiate fees for the dismissals, ensuring officers missed critical court appearances.

A History of Misconduct

The petition for Chavez’s summary suspension comes at a time when multiple Albuquerque police officers are under scrutiny, with at least three recently pleading guilty to charges linking them to the corruption scandal. Thomas Clear, now a disgraced attorney, has pleaded guilty to charges including bribery and racketeering, with a sentencing date pending. After a January 2024 FBI raid on Clear’s office, Chavez reportedly assumed several of Clear’s cases, further entrenching himself in the web of deceit.

Chavez’s Career in Question

Chavez, a seasoned attorney with a practice spanning over four decades in Bernalillo, Sandoval, and Taos counties, was once celebrated as one of the Top 50 DWI Attorneys in New Mexico by The National Advocacy for DUI Defense, LLC. As allegations continue to mount, questions loom over the ethics and integrity of the legal profession in New Mexico. The Albuquerque Police Chief, Harold Medina, confirmed that investigations into officer conduct over the past thirty years are ongoing, indicating a systemic issue that extends far beyond individual actions.

The situation remains fluid, with further investigations and possible revelations anticipated. As Chavez’s legal troubles deepen, the implications of this scandal resonate throughout the city, shaking the foundations of trust in law enforcement and the practice of law.