EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — A former New Mexico State Police lieutenant has been arrested on allegations of timecard and overtime fraud in Silver City, the department announced on Tuesday, July 23.
David Neil turned himself in to NMSP on Tuesday and was arrested, NMSP said. He was booked into the Grant County Detention Center on one count of fraud and 55 counts of paying or receiving public money for services not rendered and making or permitting false public voucher, the State Police said.
NMSP underwent an investigation last year after internal audits revealed discrepancies in Neil’s timecard submissions and overtime claims, the agency said.
The arrest “marks a significant step in the department’s commitment to maintaining transparency, integrity and accountability within its ranks,” NMSP said in a news release.
Neil, 55, is from Gila, New Mexico, which is about 30 miles northwest of Silver City. He worked for NMSP for over 24 years, the department said.
The investigation, in partnership with the Sixth District Attorney’s Office, found substantial evidence showing that Neil had falsified time records and claimed overtime for hours he did not work, NMSP said.
“Today is a difficult day for the New Mexico State Police, but it also underscores our unwavering dedication to transparency and ethical conduct,” said Troy Weisler, chief of the New Mexico State Police. “No one is above the law, and we will continue to hold ourselves to the highest standards of accountability. The actions of this individual do not reflect the values and integrity of our officers who serve their communities with honor every day.”
According to NMSP, after learning about the severity of the allegations, Weisler launched an internal investigation and placed Neil on administrative leave on Dec. 7, 2023.
Neil, who was eligible for retirement, submitted his paperwork and retired on January 1, 2024, NMSP said. NMSP are still investigating the case.
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