Ruidoso, NM – A man already incarcerated at the Northeast New Mexico Correctional Facility has been charged in connection with a 2024 burglary that occurred during the Ruidoso wildfire evacuations, state police confirmed this week.
According to the New Mexico State Police (NMSP), the Crime Suppression Bureau was assisting with fire-related safety operations in Ruidoso when agents encountered a burglary in progress at Johnston Jewelry, located at 1304 Sudderth Drive. The business showed signs of forced entry, including a broken window, damaged display cases, and visible blood evidence.
DNA samples collected from the scene were submitted to the FBI Laboratory and analyzed through the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). Investigators later matched the evidence to Uziah Alaniz, 25, of Ruidoso Downs, who was already in custody on unrelated charges.
A search warrant to obtain DNA from Alaniz was executed in October 2025. By December 29, 2025, the FBI confirmed a positive DNA match linking him to the jewelry store burglary. Following the results, an arrest warrant was served at the correctional facility.
Alaniz was charged with:
- Count 1: Aggravated Burglary (Deadly Weapon)
- Count 2: Possession of Burglary Tools
- Count 3: Larceny (Over $20,000)
- Count 4: Tampering with Evidence
- Count 5: Criminal Damage to Property
Police said the arrest brings accountability for victims impacted during one of the state’s most destructive wildfire emergencies.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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