New Mexico Cites Progress in Capturing DWI Fugitives

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez says the state has tracked down 100 fugitives linked to drunken driving infractions since a roundup effort began late last year. The Republican governor announced the milestone on Monday. Launched in December, the initiative directs State Police and a special absconder unit of the Department of Corrections to track down fugitives linked to DWI violations who have skipped out on parole or probation requirements. Of the 100 fugitives detained, 55 had multiple DWI arrests or were linked to a killing while driving drunk. The number of people killed in drunken driving crashes last year decreased by 28 percent to 122 in New Mexico. That marks a 36-year low for such deaths in a state that has long struggled with high DWI rates.