N.M. Paper Receives Threat Letter: Random Shootings to Start Friday?

By: A threat letter received by the Las Cruces Sun-News lists Friday as the day that random shootings will begin in the city.

The anonymous extortion letter stated that if city officials deliver a large sum of money by Sept. 22, "We leave peacefully."

City officials handed out copies of the letter Tuesday in hopes someone would recognize the handwriting and alert officials. Police Lt. Randy Lara said officials blacked out the deadline and other details, including dates and dollar figures demanded, because they believe releasing that information would compromise the investigation.

The Sun-News decided to publish the deadline after meeting with police.

"They weren't happy with our decision, but it was made after serious, careful consideration," said editor Jim Lawitz. "We believe the public's right to know outweighs the potential that releasing the information could hamper law enforcement's investigation."

The Friday deadline coincides with the start of the Whole Enchilada Festival, one of the city's biggest yearly events. About 50,000 people are expected to attend the three-day festival.

Lara said security will be enhanced at the event and up to and after the deadline passes. Police "will not hesitate to reach out to other agencies for assistance," Lara said.

Officials are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of whomever sent the letters. Crime Stoppers, an organization that allows callers to provide confidential information aimed at helping police solve crimes, offered an additional $1,000 reward.

"We think it might provide some incentive for anyone out here who might have information but who is reluctant to come forward," Lara said Tuesday.

The city has received two letters that threatened random shootings. Lara said they are "likely from the same individuals or group."

Lara said the first letter demands money, but he declined to provide other details.

The latest, addressed to "editor" and delivered Friday, states, "Your city is in danger."

"Maybe you already know what you have read so far _ if not, ask your city leaders," the letter states. "We just thought you would like to know why bodies will be falling if demands are not met."

A tip line was set up Monday so that residents could contact authorities regarding suspicious activity.

News of the threat generated confusion and false reports of shootings Monday despite a relatively calm weekend. A report of a bomb threat at the magistrate court building downtown and a school lockdown proved to be untrue.

"It created a lot of anxiety in the region, but they (rumors) were all false," Lara said.