New Mexico Supreme Court

United States v. Reese

May 1, 20142014 NMSC 13

Summary

The New Mexico Supreme Court answered a certified question from the Tenth Circuit, holding that completion of a deferred sentence and dismissal of the underlying charge automatically restores a person’s civil rights, including the right to hold public office, without a gubernatorial pardon. The Court based its decision on statutory history, attorney‑general opinions, and the rule of lenity.