9-24-2025 9:19pm

John Nelson West Convicted of Multiple Child Sex Crimes In Alamogordo

Chris Edwards Editor

ALAMOGORDO, NM — In a decisive legal victory for child protection advocates and the Twelfth Judicial District Attorney’s Office, John Nelson West, 58, of Alamogordo, was convicted on seven counts related to child sexual abuse following a jury trial held on September 17, 2025. The case was prosecuted by District Attorney Ryan Suggs, who has made crimes against children a top priority since taking office in 2024.

West was found guilty of:

• Five counts of Criminal Sexual Penetration of a Minor

• One count of Criminal Sexual Contact of a Minor

• One count of Enticement of a Child

The charges stem from a report made on May 30, 2023, when a child disclosed to law enforcement that her stepfather had sexually abused her over an extended period. Following the disclosure, an arrest warrant was issued, and West was taken into custody.

“This verdict reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community,” said DA Suggs in a public statement. “Our office will vigorously prosecute crimes against children, and we are proud to stand with survivors who bravely come forward to seek justice."

The successful prosecution was the result of a collaborative investigation led by the Alamogordo Police Department, with critical support from the Child Advocacy Center, Kid’s Inc., which provided a safe and professional environment for the child to share her story.

The case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy District Attorney Michael Heitz and Deputy District Attorney Renee Broberg, both of whom were praised for their trauma-informed approach and courtroom diligence.

Sentencing will be held at a later date before District Court Judge Stephen P. Ochoa, who presided over the trial. Given the severity of the charges, West faces a significant prison term under New Mexico law.

The conviction marks another milestone in DA Suggs’ administration, which has prioritized survivor-centered justice and strengthened partnerships with law enforcement and advocacy organizations across Otero and Lincoln counties.

For survivors seeking support, resources are available through:

• Kid’s Inc. Child Advocacy Center – www.kidsincnm.org

• New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs – www.nmcsap.org

Citations:

Alamogordo Town News Streaming with Anthony Lucero on KALHRadio.org

Twelfth Judicial District Attorney’s Office – Official Press Release