Juvenile Kenneth Perez Ordered Held Without Bond, to be Tried as an Adult in Fatal Shooting Case

On December 17, 2025, District Court Judge Thomas F. Stewart ruled that defendant Kenneth Perez poses a clear and significant danger to the community, ordering that he be held without bond pending trial.

Perez, charged as an adult, faces first-degree murder and three counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon in connection with a shooting at a house party on November 15, 2025.

At the detention hearing, the state presented testimony from the lead investigator highlighting the substantial risk Perez presents to public safety. Prosecutors argued that no conditions of release could sufficiently protect the community from further harm.

Judge Stewart, appointed by special designation from the New Mexico Supreme Court to preside over the case, concurred with the state’s position. He determined that Perez is “so dangerous that conditions of release are insufficient to protect the community” and granted the motion for pre-trial detention without bond.

Deputy District Attorney Tomas Medina, representing the state, welcomed the ruling: “We are pleased with the court’s decision on pre-trial detention, and we are grateful that the community will be protected from the defendant while we work diligently to pursue a just outcome in this case.”

District Attorney Fernando R. Macias addressed the court’s decision, stating: “The court’s ruling shows that acts of violence will be met with firm accountability. We remain dedicated to protecting the citizens of Las Cruces.”

The District Attorney’s Office will continue to advocate for justice on behalf of the victims and the community as the case advances through the judicial process.

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