New Mexico State Police arrest former lieutenant for timecard fraud

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – The New Mexico State Police (NMSP) arrested a former lieutenant on allegations of timecard and overtime fraud.

Officials with state police and the Sixth Judicial District Attorney’s Office began investigating David Neil, 55, in 2023 after internal audits revealed discrepancies in Neil’s timecard submissions and overtime claims. Investigators found evidence indicating that Neil had falsified time records and claimed overtime for hours he did not work, according to NMSP.


Story continues below


“Today is a difficult day for the New Mexico State Police, but it also underscores our unwavering dedication to transparency and ethical conduct,” Troy Weisler, chief of the New Mexico State Police, said in a news release. “No one is above the law, and we will continue to hold ourselves to the highest standards of accountability. The actions of this individual do not reflect the values and integrity of our officers who serve their communities with honor every day.”

Neil was placed on administrative leave on Dec. 7, 2023. He then submitted his paperwork and retired on Jan. 1, 2024.

Neil turned himself in to New Mexico State Police agents on Tuesday. He was booked into Grant County Detention Center on one count of fraud and 55 counts of paying or receiving public money for services not rendered and making or permitting false public voucher.

Neil, of Gila, worked for NMSP for more than 24 years. The New Mexico State Police is investigating this case.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.