3-04-2025 8:40pm

New Mexico State Police Route 66 Sting Yields Multiple Arrests

Chris Edwards Editor

The New Mexico State police have been actively involved in a series of investigations and heightened patrols along the Route 66 leading to multiple arrests with 38 having warrants and 30 of those with felonies.

The New Mexico State Police arrested homicide suspect Dennis Wallace during Operation Route 66. Dennis Wallace was among the multiple arrests. On March 3, 2025, agents with the New Mexico State Police Crime Suppression Bureau arrested a man wanted for first-degree murder during Operation Route 66 among others.

Agents identified the suspect, Dennis Wallace, 58, after observing a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and running the registration through the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). The check confirmed Wallace, the registered owner, had an outstanding warrant for first-degree murder.

Agents followed the motorcycle to an apartment complex on Carlisle Boulevard and confirmed Wallace was the driver. After he entered the apartment, agents maintained surveillance and obtained a search warrant to enter the residence and arrest Wallace.

Officers with the New Mexico State Police Special Operations Bureau executed the warrant and took Wallace into custody without incident. He was later booked into the Metropolitan Detention Center.

Wallace’s arrest highlights the ongoing criminal activity in the International District and our strong commitment to addressing these issues. The New Mexico State Police will continue to collaborate with the 2nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office and our other law enforcement partners to remove dangerous criminals from our streets and create a safer environment for everyone in New Mexico.

Law enforcement also recovered 2 stolen vehicles and recovered 8 illegal firearms.

Operation Route 66 is a collaborative effort with the Bernalillo County District Attorney's Office, the New Mexico State Police, the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office, and the New Mexico Corrections Department's Probation and Parole Division. The goal is to address violent crime and create a safer environment in the Albuquerque area.

Since the Operation started two weeks ago, agents and police have arrested more than 100 people. The majority of those arrested had warrants.