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Delmar Eldridge
An incident at the Grants Police Department on January 9, 2024, led to the arrest of Delmar Eldridge, who was taken into custody for his disruptive and destructive behavior.
Grants Police officers observed a male subject on the security cameras inside the front lobby of the police department on Roosevelt Avenue. This individual was seen playing with the New Mexico state flag before grabbing the American flag and attempting to rip it, ultimately throwing it on the ground. According to the police report, the male subject was swaying while standing and had difficulty walking.
Concerned about the situation, Sergeant Kemp went out into the lobby to address the male subject, later identified as Delmar Eldridge. Eldridge appeared to be under the influence, with slurred speech and impaired coordination. Eldridge informed Sergeant Kemp that he needed to calm down and confessed that he needed to turn himself in.
Recognizing the need to intervene, officers placed Eldridge into handcuffs and escorted him to the back holding cell, taking him into custody for charges related to being drunk or disorderly.
Following his arrest, Eldridge was transported to Cibola General Hospital for a medical clearance. However, Eldridge's behavior allegedly escalated at the hospital, causing disruptions in the waiting area. In response to his disruptive conduct, hospital staff and security requested that Eldridge be relocated to the radiology side of the hospital due to an influx of new patients who were seeking care.
Despite efforts to maintain order, Eldridge refused to cooperate and sit down on the bench. This defiance led to a confrontation where Eldridge allegedly spat at GPD officers, targeting their left upper thigh. As this incident was occurring, a male nurse approached to check Eldridge's vitals. Eldridge allegedly kicked the nurse in the left knee, causing considerable pain and pushing the knee out of its normal position. The nurse was forced to step away briefly to manage the discomfort.
Despite the incident, the nurse returned to complete the vital check on Eldridge. It was evident that the nurse had experienced pain and discomfort due to the kick he received.
To address Eldridge's alleged unruly behavior and the risk of further spitting incidents, officers placed a spit mask on him while he awaited examination by a doctor.
Eldridge was ultimately transported to Core Civic in Milan, where he was incarcerated.
Eldridge is facing one count of Battery on a Peace Office, one count of Battery – Fourth Degree Felony, and one count of Disorderly conduct.