Lucas Pedraza
Albuquerque, N.M. — Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen is addressing growing public concerns about violent incidents involving homeless individuals, following a recent case at the Marriott Hotel in Uptown Albuquerque.
Hotel management contacted the Sheriff’s Office directly after multiple 911 calls went unanswered in a timely manner. Within hours, deputies launched an investigation into reports of an aggressive transient individual repeatedly threatening staff and damaging property.
The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Lucas Pedraza-Abrams, is accused of causing over $10,000 in damage and creating an unsafe environment for guests and employees. Surveillance footage and witness statements led to felony charges, and Pedraza-Abrams was arrested on Sunday, August 24, by detectives from BCSO’s Organized Retail Crime Unit.
He faces two counts of Criminal Damage to Property over $1,000, both fourth-degree felonies.
In a public statement, Sheriff Allen acknowledged the community’s frustration and emphasized the department’s ongoing efforts to balance compassion with accountability. He noted that while BCSO continues to invest in diversion programs, housing support, and behavioral health services, not all individuals accept help.
“We have been empathetic. We have been compassionate. But enough is enough,” Allen said. “My duty as Sheriff is to arrest those who commit crimes and to protect the people of Bernalillo County. That is exactly what we will continue to do.”
Allen reaffirmed that BCSO remains committed to supporting treatment options for those willing to engage, but warned that criminal behavior will be met with enforcement.
