Alamogordo Man John Nelson West Receives 75-Year Sentence for Child Sexual Abuse Crimes

Alamogordo, NM – In a case that has shaken the local community, 58-year-old John Nelson West of Alamogordo was sentenced to 75 years in the New Mexico Department of Corrections on Friday, December 12, 2025, for multiple convictions related to the sexual abuse of a child.

District Court Judge Stephen P. Ochoa handed down the sentence following West’s conviction by an Otero County jury on September 17, 2025. The jury found him guilty of five counts of Criminal Sexual Penetration of a Minor, one count of Criminal Sexual Contact of a Minor, and one count of Enticement of a Child.

The abuse came to light on May 30, 2023, when the young victim bravely reported the incidents to law enforcement. Investigators determined that the abuse had occurred over an extended period and was perpetrated by the victim’s stepfather. An arrest warrant was swiftly issued, leading to West’s custody shortly thereafter.

“This sentence reflects the seriousness of these crimes and sends a clear message that offenses against children will be met with firm and meaningful consequences,” stated the Twelfth Judicial District Attorney’s Office. “Our office remains committed to protecting children and holding offenders fully accountable for the harm they cause.”

The case was thoroughly investigated by the Alamogordo Police Department, with prosecution led by Chief Deputy District Attorney Michael Heitz and Deputy District Attorney Renee Broberg.

Community leaders and advocates for child protection have praised the outcome, emphasizing the importance of victims coming forward and the diligent work of local law enforcement and prosecutors in seeking justice.

As Alamogordo continues to support families and promote safety in our schools and neighborhoods—home to Holloman Air Force Base and a tight-knit Tularosa Basin community—this ruling serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts to safeguard our most vulnerable residents.

This report is based on a press release from the Office of the District Attorney, Twelfth Judicial District, and local court records.

More News from Alamogordo

• A Community Reckons with History: 'First We Bombed New Mexico' Brings Nuclear Justice to Alamogordo Film Screening at Flickinger Center Features Political Leaders' Support for Downwinders' Cause
• Community Gathers to Honor Centenarian Teacher Mildred Gordan at Patrons Hall Celebration Political Leaders Join Neighbors in Marking 100-Year Milestone for Retired Educator