A former candidate for the New Mexico House of Representatives has been found guilty by a federal jury for his involvement in a shooting spree targeting the homes of four elected officials. The jury also convicted him for plotting to murder multiple witnesses to prevent their testimony at trial.
Solomon Peña, 40, who ran for District 14 during the November 2022 mid-term elections, pressured members of the Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners to refuse certification of the election results after his defeat. Despite his efforts, the commissioners certified the results. Subsequently, Peña organized and participated in shootings at the homes of two Bernalillo County commissioners and two New Mexico state legislators between December 4, 2022, and January 3, 2023. The attacks were conducted with help from co-conspirators Demetrio Trujillo and Jose Trujillo.
Jose Trujillo had previously pleaded guilty on January 9, 2024, to several charges including conspiracy and using a firearm during a crime of violence. His sentencing is scheduled for April 14. Demetrio Trujillo also pleaded guilty on February 1, 2024, to similar charges with an additional count related to discharging a firearm. His sentencing is set for May 21.
After being arrested, Peña attempted to solicit inmates in jail to coordinate murders of witnesses against him.
The jury found Peña guilty on multiple counts including conspiracy; intimidation and interference with federally protected activities; using or carrying a firearm in connection with a crime of violence; being a felon in possession of a firearm; and solicitation to commit violence. He faces a minimum penalty of 60 years and could receive up to life imprisonment. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge considering U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The announcement was made by Matthew R. Galeotti from the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin for the District of New Mexico, and FBI Special Agent Raul Bujanda from Albuquerque Field Office.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Albuquerque Field Office alongside local law enforcement agencies including the Albuquerque Police Department and Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office.
Trial Attorney Bill Gullotta along with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy Peña and Patrick E. Cordova are prosecuting this case with support from former Trial Attorney Ryan Crosswell.