LAS CRUCES, NM - Doña Ana County District Attorney Fernando R. Macias announced that a jury has found former Las Cruces Police Officer Felipe Hernandez guilty of voluntary manslaughter in the 2023 shooting death of 45-year-old Terry Leyva Gomez. Hernandez was acquitted of the greater charge of second-degree murder. Following the verdict, he was remanded into custody pending sentencing.
District Attorney Fernando R. Macias said he is encouraged by the jury's decision to hold Hernandez accountable.
"It is very positive that the jury held Felipe Hernandez responsible for the death of Terry Leyva Gomez," Macias said. "We will be asking for a lengthy sentence, as permitted under the law. While it is difficult to determine why the jury did not go forward with the second-degree murder charge, we firmly believe the evidence presented at trial supported that charge. Nevertheless, we are respectful of the jury's deliberation process and the results."
Macias added that the verdict reaffirms a core principle of justice.
"This verdict affirms that law enforcement officers, like all members of our community, are accountable for their actions. No badge and no title place anyone above the law," he said.
Deputy District Attorney Tomas Medina said the case has had a deep impact on the community.
"The loss of Ms. Gomez's life is a tragedy that has deeply affected her family, our community, and the integrity of public trust," Medina said. "Our office extends its gratitude to the jurors who gave their time and attention to this case, and to Ms. Gomez's family for their courage throughout this process. We will continue to pursue justice with integrity, compassion, and respect for the rule of law."
