FARMINGTON, N.M. (AP) A man awaiting trial in a fatal accident has surrendered to authorities 10 days after being mistakenly being released from the San Juan County jail. The jail released 44-year-old Joe Gallegos on July 15 after authorities dismissed a drug charge. However, he should not have been released because he is still charged with vehicular homicide and other crimes related to the death of 32-year-old Delandra Pichoe.
According to the Daily Times, Gallegos surrendered on Thursday, and his lawyer says his client is a man of integrity who wants to take responsibility for the accident.
Chief Deputy County Attorney Dustin O'Brien says Gallegos wouldn't have been charged with escape or other crimes because the jail was responsible for his release.
