On March 20, 2025, former New Mexico Republican legislative candidate Solomon Peña was convicted on all 13 charges related to a violent plot targeting Democratic politicians, highlighting the escalating tensions in U.S. political discourse.
Former Republican Candidate Convicted in New Mexico Shooting Conspiracy
Former Republican Candidate Convicted in New Mexico Shooting Conspiracy
Solomon Peña found guilty of orchestrating drive-by shootings against Democratic officials after his election defeat.
A jury in New Mexico has found Solomon Peña, a former Republican candidate for a state legislative seat, guilty on all 13 counts related to a conspiracy involving drive-by shootings that targeted the homes of four Democratic officials. The conviction took place on March 20, 2025, after a jury deliberated for approximately five hours, ensuring accountability for a series of violent acts committed after Peña's election defeat in 2022.
Peña's actions were described as intentional and hazardous, with the shootings occurring between late December 2022 and early January 2023. Although no injuries were reported, the law enforcement officials highlighted the alarming reality that bullets struck a state senator's home near where her young daughter slept.
As part of the courtroom proceedings, it was revealed that Peña had allegedly paid four individuals to carry out the shootings, providing them with targeted addresses via text messages. Court documents show that Peña not only refused to concede his loss but also voiced claims that the electoral process had been "rigged," further exacerbating the situation.
The criminal case against Peña also included his associated co-defendants, Demetrio Trujillo and his son Jose Trujillo, who had already pleaded guilty to their roles in the conspiracy. Peña's attorney has indicated that they plan to appeal the verdict, describing the trial as politically charged.
Prior to these events, Peña had a history of legal troubles, having been convicted in 2008 for various state crimes, including burglary and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Following that sentence, he was released on probation and managed to complete his supervision by 2021.
The Justice Department has signaled that Peña faces a minimum prison sentence of 60 years, marking the case as a significant moment in the ongoing discussions surrounding threats to political figures and the security of the electoral process in the United States.
