20 Years: The Sentence Facing Bernalillo Deputy in DWI Scheme
Paul Jessen Jr. faces up to two decades in federal prison for a six-year plot to dismiss drunk driving cases in exchange for gifts and services.
By Julia Novak ·
A federal grand jury has indicted Paul Jessen Jr., a former Bernalillo County sheriff’s deputy, for his role in a corruption scheme that spanned nearly six years.
Prosecutors allege the conspiracy operated from March 2018 through January 2024. The scheme involved helping offenders avoid criminal and administrative penalties for drunk driving arrests. Jessen is currently facing a charge of conspiracy to commit interference with commerce by extortion under color of official right. A conviction carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Court documents identify attorney Thomas J. Clear III and paralegal Ricardo Mendez as co-conspirators. The trio worked to help clients escape consequences for their arrests. Jessen’s specific role involved skipping required court appearances for clients represented by Clear. Prosecutors claim he knew his absence would allow Clear to seek dismissal of those cases.
Jessen initially expressed concern to a senior Bernalillo County deputy about accepting cash for his services. He later agreed to accept gifts instead. The court papers list specific items, including a Pit Boss grill and smoker, a Sharp large-screen television, and Craftsman tools and a toolbox.
The indictment also details other benefits Jessen received. These included free legal services during a separate investigation into him tipping off DEA targets, as well as alcohol and hotel rooms. Jessen was convicted in July of that year for obstructing a DEA investigation and making false statements to the FBI.
Thirteen individuals, including Clear and Mendez, have already pleaded guilty to federal charges related to the conspiracy.
