Felony charges dropped against state police officer

Staff report

Felony child abuse charges were dropped against a New Mexico State Police officer in Quay County Magistrate Court on Thursday morning.

Magistrate Judge Joel Garnett found no probable cause to support child abuse allegations against Isaac Vigil, who has been a state police officer for about a year and a half, following a hearing on Wednesday, according to a court document.

A misdemeanor charge of battery against a household member is still pending against Vigil.

Arraignment and pretrial proceedings on the misdemeanor charge will be scheduled.

Attorney Kirk Chavez said his client is “completely innocent of the crimes and has informed the Tenth Judicial District Attorney’s office that Vigil refuses to enter into any plea negotiations and will take all matters to a jury.”

Vigil was arrested on the night of Aug. 14, after Tucumcari officers responded to a report of domestic violence at a residence in the 700 block of Escuela Avenue, said Pete Rivera, Tucumcari deputy police chief.

Chavez said the incident allegedly occurred in Vigil’s home and involved a live-in girlfriend.

State Police Lt. Damyan Brown said following Vigil’s arrest, Vigil was immediately placed on paid administrative leave. Vigil was not allowed to conduct law enforcement activities and, per policy, surrendered his patrol vehicle, police-issued firearm and badge, Brown said. Chavez said Vigil remains on paid administrative leave.