Mayor Eric Enriquez, City of Las Cruces | City of Las Cruces
Mayor Eric Enriquez, City of Las Cruces | City of Las Cruces
A jury in Las Cruces has ruled in favor of the City and its police department officers in a civil lawsuit. The case involved Erick Lopez, who claimed excessive force was used during his arrest in July 2022.
Lopez, aged 32, filed the suit against three officers and a sergeant from the Las Cruces Police Department (LCPD). The incident occurred on July 3, 2022, when officers responded to reports of property damage on Monte Vista Avenue. Lopez was found holding a bloody knife and what appeared to be a firearm.
Officers managed to take Lopez into custody using less-lethal force without firing any shots. It was later discovered that the firearm was actually a replica pellet gun.
The trial began on January 6, 2025, and concluded with the jury's verdict on January 10. The jury determined that no excessive force or battery had occurred.
Chief Jeremy Story of LCPD stated after the trial: “When an officer makes a mistake, there is accountability. Just as important, when an officer does their job, we will stand behind them all the way to the finish line.”
Lopez’s legal team sought $1 million in damages; however, following the verdict, the City is not required to pay any compensation.
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