Albuquerque May Pay Up To $1 Million For DOJ Negotiations

(Information from: Albuquerque Journal, http://www.abqjournal.com) ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Payment for an attorney representing Albuquerque in negotiations with the U.S. Justice Department over police reforms could hit $1 million. The Albuquerque Journal reports that the mayor's office has asked the City Council to approve an additional $250,000 for attorney Scott Greenwood. That would bring the Ohio-based lawyer's contract to $1 million. Greenwood has negotiated on behalf of the city in meetings on a settlement agreement that includes a series of reforms in the police department. A 2014 Justice Department report that found a pattern of excessive force and civil rights violations. City Attorney Jessica Hernandez says Greenwood's expertise is needed for the next year. However, Greenwood has been absent from recent court hearings and conferences. He did not immediately return a call this week seeking comment.