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Sheriff Group Wants New Mexico Law Changed

The New Mexico Sheriff's Association is seeking to tightening eligibility rules for who can run for sheriff in the state.

Association Executive Director Jack Levick tells KOAT-TV that the organization wants legislation requiring a candidate for sheriff have no felony convictions and at least five years of law enforcement experience.

Levick says the group will urge lawmakers during next year's legislative session.

State law currently only requires a sheriff candidate be at least 21 years old and a U.S. citizen.

Levick's announcement comes on the heels of Rio Arriba County Sheriff Tommy Rodella getting indicted on civil rights charges. Rodella is accused of roughing up a motorist during an off-duty traffic stop in March.

Scott Baird, a Republican running for Bernalillo County sheriff, has three DWI convictions.

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Information from: KOAT-TV.

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