RIO RANCHO, N.M. — A Sandoval County judge says he plans to issue a bench warrant for a man accused of vandalizing license plate cameras in Rio Rancho after the defendant walked out of a court hearing before his arraignment could be completed.
Jevon Martinez appeared in Sandoval County District Court on Monday to face charges of larceny, criminal damage to property, and tampering with evidence.
According to court proceedings, Martinez challenged the court’s authority and stated he was making a “special appearance, not a general appearance.” He also referred to his court-appointed attorney, Pamala Sullivan, as “co-counsel” and argued that she could not speak on his behalf without his permission.
During the hearing, Judge Christopher Perez warned Martinez that leaving the courtroom would result in a failure-to-appear warrant.
Despite the warning, Martinez left the courtroom before the arraignment was completed.
Martinez is accused of destroying three Flock license plate reader cameras in Rio Rancho earlier this year. According to police, the cameras were replaced with a sign reading, “You’re welcome, Republic of New Mexico.”
Judge Perez said a bench warrant will be issued and that another hearing will be scheduled to determine whether Martinez can legally represent himself in the case.
As of Monday, court records indicated the warrant had not yet been formally filed.
