GRANTS, N.M. — Authorities arrested 56year-old Thomas Louis Martinez after he was found attempting to bypass an interlock device while intoxicated, according to police reports.
The incident unfolded on March 22, 2024, when officers responded to a call regarding suspicious circumstances on Estancia Avenue in Grants, New Mexico. The reporting party expressed concerns about a male subject stumbling and swaying on the street after exiting a gray Ford truck, leaving the keys in the ignition.
A sergeant with Grants Police Department, who was familiar with the individual, arrived at the scene and observed the man attempting to bypass the interlock device on his truck. The man, identified as Thomas Louis Martinez, exhibited signs of intoxication, including slow and slurred speech, as well as the smell of alcohol on his breath.
Upon questioning, Martinez admitted to trying to bypass the interlock to drive.
Concerned for public safety, the sergeant arrested Martinez to prevent him from driving while intoxicated. Martinez was transported to Cibola General Hospital for medical clearance before being taken into custody.
During questioning, Martinez claimed he was trying to visit a friend named George but couldn't find the house due to his intoxicated state. According to the GPD report provided inconsistent statements about how he arrived at Estancia Avenue.
Following booking procedures at the Grants Police Department, Martinez was transferred to the Core Civic Detention Center in Milan, N.M. for incarceration.
The case was handled by the Grants Police Department, and Martinez faces charges of disorderly conduct related to intoxication. According to the report, authorities also impounded his truck for further investigation; thanks to assistance from other officers, the sergeant was able to process this arrest faster than normal.
No injuries were reported in connection with the incident. Authorities reminded the public to report any suspicious behavior and reiterated the importance of responsible alcohol consumption to ensure public safety.