LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) A Border Patrol agent in Las Cruces is accused of threatening his family with a gun, shoving his wife and shooting the family dog. Las Cruces police arrested Carmelo Diaz Jr. late Wednesday on suspicion of aggravated assault against a family member, battery against a household member and extreme animal cruelty. Police say the dog was euthanized after a veterinarian determined it was paralyzed.
Police also say Diaz allegedly threatened to kill himself during the incident. The Las Cruces Sun-News reports that Diaz is jailed at the Dona Ana County Detention Center. He has requested that a lawyer be appointed for him.
The Border Patrol says it can't comment on Diaz's case but says it takes allegations of misconduct seriously and will cooperate with any investigation.
