Man from Santa Fe charged with stealing guns, vehicle and other government property in Indian Country

            ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Derek Padilla, 29, of Santa Fe, New Mexico appeared in federal court on June 10 on a criminal complaint charging him with theft of government property in Indian Country.  A U.S. magistrate judge conducted a detention hearing and ordered him to remain in custody pending trial.

            According to the criminal complaint, Padilla allegedly committed the offense in Santa Fe County on Nambe Pueblo.  Sometime in May 2020, Padilla allegedly entered a Bureau of Indian Affairs storage compound and stole government property, including a government vehicle and firearms. 

            The Bureau of Indian Affairs arrested Padilla on June 4, 2020.  He faces up to ten years in prison if convicted.  Complaints are only allegations.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

            The Bureau of Indian Affairs is investigating this case with assistance from New Mexico State Police, Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, Pojoaque Police Department, and Federal Protective Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison C. Jaros is prosecuting the case.