ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) A northern New Mexico sheriff has pleaded not guilty to federal charges stemming from an off-duty traffic stop that authorities say left a driver injured. Rio Arriba County Sheriff Thomas Rodella was arraigned Monday on deprivation of rights and brandishing a firearm.
Prosecutors say Rodella was in plainclothes when he pulled over motorist in March, jumped out of his personal SUV with a gun and shoved his badge in the motorist's face. Authorities say the driver was dragged from his car and thrown to the ground.
Robert Gorence, Rodella's attorney, says the allegations never took place. Gorence says the case against Rodella is largely based on a dispute with U.S. Attorney Damon Martinez over U.S. Forest Service patrols in northern New Mexico.
Prosecutors say Rodella has been involved in at least three other questionable traffic stops.
