The Eastern New Mexico News - Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities

CLOVIS — A former Clovis police officer was found guilty Wednesday of embezzlement of $250 or less and tampering with evidence in connection to a December incident, according to a release from the district attorney’s office.

Francisco Hernandez, 34, was sentenced by Harding County Judge Karen Mitchell to 364 days, which were suspended in favor of supervised probation.

According to court documents:

• In December, an evidence technician with the CPD indicated discrepancies in Hernandez’ evidence reporting.

• Cash was later discovered in Hernandez’ desk, and an investigation indicated cash from an individual Hernandez arrested was never logged into evidence or returned to its owner.

Chief Deputy District Attorney Brian Stover prosecuted the case for the state. Hernandez’ attorney, Chris Christensen of Portales, said the trial was pretty straightforward but his client maintains his innocence and they are looking at appealing.