ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A former New Mexico State Police lieutenant is now facing federal charges in a dramatic fall from grace. Carlos Antonio Perea, 55, was arrested following a traffic stop on August 5. Officers say a K-9 alerted to narcotics inside the vehicle and within its spare tires. The search turned up multiple packages containing a large quantity of drugs—approximately 140 pounds of suspected fentanyl pills, hidden within a duffel bag and two spare tires.
According to KOB-TV, court documents show Perea admitted his law enforcement background helped him “transport drugs successfully and undetected.” He reportedly made repeated trips, moving drugs from places like California, Arizona, and Roswell into Albuquerque.
Perea retired from the New Mexico State Police in 2019 and later worked for ABF Freight System. He has been charged federally with possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and conspiracy. He was released to a halfway house in Albuquerque while awaiting his arraignment scheduled for Friday, September 5.
This shocking case raises serious concerns about how insider knowledge can be misused—and serves as a stark reminder that once-respected badges do not guarantee lawful behavior.