EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Longtime Dona Ana County public official and attorney Fernando Macias is running for district attorney in the Third Judicial District, he announced Monday, Feb. 5.
The Third Judicial District covers Dona Ana County.
Macias has had a long career in the public eye in Southern New Mexico.
Most recently, Macias has served as Dona Ana County manager since January 2018. In that job he has directly reported to the County Commissioners and has overseen a workforce of 850 county employees.
He had also served as county manager from 1997 to 2000.
In December, the County Commissioners voted to end Macias’ contract. His last day in office is reported to be April 30.
Gerald Byers is the incumbent district attorney.
During his career, Macias has served as a district judge, public defender, executive director of New Mexico Legal Aid, assistant district attorney and private practice attorney.
In addition, Macias has served 16 years as a New Mexico state senator, during which time he served as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee. He also held the position of chairman of the Doña Ana County Commission.
He has also served as the general manager of the Border Environment Cooperation Commission and as the executive director of the Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance.
“My extensive experience demonstrates my qualifications to effectively protect the safety of our community,” Macias said in his announcement.
“I will build a formidable prosecution team that will be the finest in New Mexico. I have the energy, optimism, perseverance, and skills to make improvements to successfully operate the office. Together with a fully staffed office, we will effectively prosecute cases in Doña Ana County to reduce crime and build a safer community. I will drastically reduce the rate of dismissals and operate the office with full transparency,” Macias stated.
Here is a summary of what he plans to do if elected, according to his announcement.
“Macias said he will undertake a multi-faceted approach to combating crime and improving public safety. This includes vigorous prosecution of both adults and juveniles involved in crimes of violence. Where appropriate, holding parents accountable for the crimes committed by their minor children and identify and keep repeat offenders and dangerous individuals incarcerated pending trial. He will fast track cases so that both victims and defendants are not waiting an excessive amount of time for justice and accountability. Macias also said he will promote early intervention programs for juveniles by building partnerships with the schools, law enforcement agencies, and youth organizations to divert children from the criminal justice system as well as promoting aggressive anti-truancy programs. He will develop domestic and child abuse prevention programs, as well as address the mostly ignored problems of animal cruelty, shoplifting, and illegal dumping.”
Macias added: “Doña Ana County needs new and resourceful leadership in the District Attorney’s office. I plan to develop and lead an unmatched team of highly talented prosecutors to achieve a District Attorney’s office that effectively serves the citizens of Doña Ana County.”
Read: Read More