Former Political Candidate Indicted on Federal Charges in Connection with Drive-By Shootings at Homes of State and Local Lawmakers in New Mexico

A failed political candidate has been indicted on federal charges in connection with a series of drive-by shootings at the homes of state and local lawmakers in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The indictment, which was unsealed Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Albuquerque, names former Republican candidate Solomon Peña and two alleged accomplices with additional conspiracy and weapons-related charges.

The charges stem from a series of drive-by shootings that occurred in December 2022 and January of this year on the homes of four Democratic officials, including the current state House speaker. The attacks came amid a surge of threats and acts of intimidation against election workers and public officials across the country after former President Donald Trump’s defeat in the 2020 presidential election.

The indictment alleges that Peña and his two accomplices conspired to intimidate and interfere with the election process by targeting the homes of the four Democratic officials. The indictment also alleges that Peña and his accomplices used firearms in the commission of the crimes.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Peña and his two accomplices could face up to 20 years in prison. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed.