In a landmark case, a former Republican candidate for New Mexico's state legislature, Solomon Peña, was convicted on Wednesday of federal charges stemming from a conspiracy to conduct drive-by shootings at the residences of four Democratic officials. Following a jury deliberation of approximately five hours, Peña was found guilty of all 13 counts, including conspiracy, weapons-related offenses, and interference with federally protected activities.
The incidents, which transpired in December 2022 and January 2023—just weeks after Peña lost the election—saw gunfire directed at the homes of Democratic officials, one of which resulted in bullets penetrating a state senator's child's bedroom. Although there were no reported injuries, the severity of the acts has raised alarm among law enforcement and political circles.
Peña's attorney, Nicholas Hart, criticized the trial as politically motivated and indicated plans to appeal the verdict. The case attracted heightened attention after Peña's arrest in January, when investigators announced he had financially incentivized others to carry out the shootings, evidenced by text communications detailing targeted addresses.
In the wake of his electoral defeat, Peña had refused to accept the results, alleging widespread fraud despite the fact that he lost by a substantial margin in a traditionally Democratic district. Reports reveal that he confronted several election officials at their homes with allegations of election rigging.
His trial commenced on March 10 and proceeded over two weeks, leading to the swift jury verdict. Prosecutors indicated that if convicted, Peña could face a mandatory minimum sentence of 60 years in prison on the charges brought against him. This conviction is particularly notable given Peña’s prior felony convictions dating back to 2008, which included charges like vehicle burglary and larceny.
