APD arrests 11-year-old after monthlong violent crime spree

ALBUQUERQUE – Albuquerque Police Department officers took an 11-year-old boy into custody late Thursday following a series of dangerous crimes, including a shooting last week.

Below is a list of incidents that APD said involved the juvenile suspect:

May 5, 2024 – A Kia Forte was stolen in northeast Albuquerque and was recovered an hour later.

May 12, 2024 – A woman reported to police that there were four juveniles throwing rocks at a residence and trying to break the windows of the home. The woman was struck in the leg.

May 12, 2024 – A 12-year-old called 911 to report there was a group of juveniles throwing rocks at her home. The caller was able to identify some of the juveniles, who she said were known as the “Kia Boys” and were known to frequent the area.

May 17, 2024 – APD officers responded to a commercial burglary at a building on Indian School Road near Tramway Boulevard. An individual observed a vehicle — later identified as a stolen grey Kia — drive in reverse and crash into the front security door of the business. Police say there was over $15,000 in theft and damages.

May 29, 2024 – A male called 911 to report he had been shot at on Cordova Avenue, by four juveniles in a blue Kia. The male caller stated there was an unknown Kia parked outside his home and there were four juveniles inside. He said he asked the juveniles to leave. Police say the juveniles left but then they returned and shot at the victim. A 9mm casing was recovered at the residence of the male victim.

June 1, 2024 – APD detectives were contacted about a shooting that occurred on General Chennault Street, where a male was shot in the hand. Police say a 9 mm handgun was found at the scene.

Police say information from several witnesses, as well as victim statements and surveillance video, led detectives to identify the 11-year-old and secure an arrest warrant. The pre-teen has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, shooting at or from a motor vehicle, unlawful possession of a weapon by a minor, and other crimes.

“I am grateful that we took this young suspect into custody without our officers having to use force,” Chief Harold Medina said in a news release. “Despite his age, this suspect is considered very dangerous because of his use of a firearm and his escalating violence. Unfortunately, we faced roadblock after roadblock while looking for a place to keep him in custody. Fortunately, the Governor, District Attorney’s Office and CYFD stepped in and helped us. I hope the Legislature will take action to deal with the growing issue of young juveniles who are using guns and stealing cars, while trying to get attention on social media.”

The Law Offices of the Public Defender is not yet representing the 11-year-old but said they are representing a 12-year-old who has also been charged in connection to the case.

“There is always more to the story than can fit in a press release, and quick judgments don’t help us reach the appropriate course of action for the good of the community and the child,” said LOPD spokesperson Maggie Shepard. 

Editor’s note: This story has been updated to add attribution and to include a statement from the Law Offices of the Public Defender.