FJDA OFFICE NEWS RELEASE

First Judicial District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies has announced that her office will prosecute the case against Zachary Babitz jointly and in cooperation with the United States Attorney’s Office. Jonathan Gardner is a cross-designated prosecutor in both offices — serving as an FJDA senior trial attorney and a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) — and will be a part of the federal prosecution team to ensure Babitz faces the harshest penalties afforded by law.

Babitz, 38, is accused of several offenses related to a crime spree earlier this month including the August 6 fatal shooting of 83-year-old Gordon Wilson in mid-town Santa Fe. The charges against Babitz include carjacking and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. If convicted of the current charges, Babitz faces up to life in prison, without the possibility of parole.

This decision for a joint and cooperative prosecution at the federal level aligns with policy and ensures that the federal rules, procedures, and the custody and care of critical evidence are not adversely impacted by a simultaneous state case. In addition to SAUSA Gardner’s involvement, the FJDA will provide our partners at the United States Attorney’s Office with any additional support they require throughout the pendency of Babitz’s case.

We once again extend our sympathies to the family and friends of Mr. Wilson and thank the Santa Fe and Las Cruces police departments for their efforts investigating, and ultimately apprehending, Babitz. Gordon Wilson’s death remains as a shocking reminder of New Mexico’s far-reaching crime problem, and we look forward to fighting for justice in this case alongside our federal partners.