New Mexico secretary of state pleads not guilty
SANTA FE – Embattled New Mexico Secretary of State Dianna Duran appears to be bracing for a potentially lengthy court battle, as she entered a not guilty plea Tuesday to charges of fraud, embezzlement, money laundering and other crimes for allegedly using campaign contributions to cover personal spending at casinos.
She was released Tuesday on her own recognizance, but the judge imposed conditions of release that include directions not to leave the state for work duties without the court’s approval and not to enter gambling establishments.
Meanwhile, a top-ranking staffer in the Secretary of State’s Office said Duran made an appearance in her office later Tuesday – after two-plus weeks of staying away from the job – and plans to be back at work next week.
Also on Tuesday, the Legislative Council approved spending up to $250,000 to fund a special committee to investigate the charges against Duran and make recommendations on her possible impeachment.
Read more: http://www.abqjournal.com/644400/news/nm-secretary-of-state-due-in-court-on-fraud-charges.html