Meet the Candidates: Municipal Judge

El Defensor Chieftain sent candidate questionnaires to Socorro County candidates for the upcoming election. Responses from candidates will run over the next several newspaper editions. Candidate answers to basic info were limited to 20 words and questions were limited to 50 words. Answers past the word limit are cut off.

Socorro Municipal Judge

Joseph E. Gutierrez

Age: 65

Current occupation (If retired, from what field): Currently the Municipal Judge of Socorro, I retired from the New Mexico State Police. I started as a patrolman became

Highest level of education: Criminal Justice

Previously held elected office: No other

Years of residency in Socorro: Born and raised in Socorro move away briefly for 12 years while working with the New Mexico State Police

Have you ever been convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony offenses in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain.

I have been blessed even though as a Juvenile I was told many times by my mom and dad t

1. How can you ensure your fairness in adjudicating criminal cases? Any cases before municipal court the judge follows a judicial process guideline. He ensures the defendant understands the process, allowing the defendant to ask questions. The defendant is allowed three plea choices of guilty, not guilty or nolo contender during arraignment hearings, if plea is not guilty goes to trial.

2. What can the municipal court do to help ensure compliance of municipal ordinances? The court treats everyone equally when cited for a violation. Whether fines are imposed and paid in full or a payment plan, community service or working with the owner to remove and cleanup debris. The last resort is an arrest warrant for not complying with a court order.

3. Do you believe in alternative sentencing? I think all judges believe in alternative sentencing it allows courts to tailor sentences to the specifics of the crime and the individual, in some cases focusing on reform rather than solely on punishment.

4. What are the most important challenges facing the municipal court, and how do you propose to address them? The Municipal Court is currently facing abolishment by the City of Socorro. The court can only function properly if the local government officials, the Police Department, Code and Animal Control Enforcement work together to achieve what is best for the community. Instead of transferring these violations to Magistrate Court.

Matias Serna, Jr (aka Robert Serna)

Age: 72

Current occupation (If retired, from what field):

Local business owner

Highest level of education: High school plus 11.5 years NM Court Education Institute

Previously held elected office:

Years of residency in Socorro:

Have you ever been convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony offenses in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain.

1. How can you ensure your fairness in adjudicating criminal cases? Using my 11.5 years prior experience as Municipal Judge of Magdalena, I will remain impartial and carefully review the details of each case. I will listen to all sides of the situation and base my decisions on facts and evidence presented to me.

2. What can the municipal court do to help ensure compliance of municipal ordinances? Follow-up is a crucial accountability step to ensure compliance. If community service is assigned, hours and data should be tracked. If drug tests are required, they must be completed in person, monitored, and held accountable for positive tests. Without monitoring and follow-up, non-compliance results in repetitive behavior and further crime.

3. Do you believe in alternative sentencing?

Yes, 100%. Those who commit crimes are crying out for help due to addiction, abuse, and managing mental health concerns. Everyone deserves an opportunity to rehabilitate no matter what the circumstances. Alternative sentencing alleviates overcrowding, supports behavioral change, and contributes to safer communities by addressing the root causes of crime.

4. What are the most important challenges facing the municipal court, and how do you propose to address them? Locating financial resources through grant writing to help our community with drug addiction and drug related burglaries. The purpose of court is not to make a profit through fines, but to instill consequences for violators and get them the support needed to get their lives back on track.