ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) A motorist says he thought a northern New Mexico sheriff was going to execute him during a heated traffic stop. Michael Tafoya told jurors Monday he begged for his life as Rio Arriba County Thomas Rodella pulled a gun on him following a road rage chase in March.
Rodella is standing trial of federal charges of deprivation of rights and brandishing a firearm. He has pleaded not guilty. Authorities say Rodella was in plainclothes when he pulled over Tafoya, jumped out of his personal SUV with a gun, and shoved his badge in Tafoya's face.
Defense attorney say Rodella did not injure Tafoya and simply wanted to stop him from driving recklessly. The 26-year-old Tafoya is scheduled on Tuesday to face cross examination.
