New Mexico governor opposes release of compound suspects

Associated Press | Las Cruces Sun-News

New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez and other state Republicans are criticizing a judge’s decision to allow the release of five defendants accused of child abuse at a ramshackle desert compound where authorities found the remains of a boy.

The decision came even though prosecutors warned that the extended family had been training for an armed, anti-government mission.

State Republican Party Chairman Ryan Cangiolosi on Tuesday described the decision to allow the release of two men and three women as “absurd” and said he believes the suspects pose a danger to the public and are a flight risk.

Democratic Judge Sarah Backus set a $20,000 bond for each defendant and ordered them to wear ankle monitors when released. They are forbidden to hold firearms.

Martinez also renewed her criticism of new state rules for pre-trial release that set a high standard of proof for holding suspects without bond.

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