Attorney General Hector Balderas

AG News:

ALBUQUERQUE — Attorney General Hector Balderas has announced that Pamela and Randy Smith have been sentenced to prison for multiple frauds and for engaging in an official act for personal gain.

Pamela Smith previously served as a probate judge and deputy medical investigator for the City of Truth or Consequences. She used her official positions to falsify public records related to a deceased man’s estate and appointed her husband, Randy Smith, as special administrator to that man’s estate.

Randy Smith used his appointed position to steal approximately $284,000 from the estate and convert it to the Smiths’ own personal use.  

“The City of Truth or Consequences put its trust in Ms. Smith to protect New Mexico citizens. Instead, she blatantly betrayed that trust and concocted a scheme to enrich herself,” Attorney General Balderas said. “This was a disgusting act, and we must be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves and ensure that these individuals go to prison for the harm they have caused to this family.”

Sierra County Judge Jim Foy sentenced Pamela Smith to 4.5 years and Randy Smith to 2.5 years in the Department of Corrections. Both will serve five years of supervised probation after prison. Both also will have to pay restitution to the victim’s estate totaling $284,000.

In handing down his ruling, Judge Foy referred to Pamela Smith as an example of “judicial corruption at its worst”.

This case was investigated by the New Mexico Office of the Attorney General and prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Peter J. Valencia.