ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) – A federal judge on Wednesday sentenced a former New Mexico sheriff to 10 years in prison for abusing a driver in a bizarre, off-duty traffic stop that prosecutors described as a fit of road rage.
Ex-Rio Arriba County Sheriff Thomas Rodella told the judge during the sentencing hearing that he did good deeds during his tenure. But the court also received letters from community members who were critical of Rodella.
Defense attorneys sought to lessen his term over health concerns. But prosecutors argued the former sheriff created a dangerous situation the day he pulled over a motorist.
“I hope this is part of your journey in life,” U.S. District Judge James Browning told Rodella. “I hope you use this time.”
The sentence, which includes three years of supervised release and a $200,000 fine, left Rodella’s family and friends in tears. They consoled each other outside the courthouse and declined to answer reporters’ questions.