AG Balderas Keeps Alleged Rapist, Kidnapper, Human Trafficker Behind Bars

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 14th, 2018

Contact: David Carl (505) 288-2465

Albuquerque, NM – Today, Attorney General Hector Balderas secured the preventative detention
of Mario Morales, a man accused of human trafficking, kidnapping, criminal sexual penetration,
false imprisonment and more. The New Mexico Office of the Attorney General successfully
extradited Morales, following his arrest in Arizona last month. Following the NMOAG’s
preventative detention motion in November, Morales was indicted on more 15 charges, 14 of
them felonies.
“Serial offenders who harm New Mexicans need to be behind bars, if they pose a risk to our
community,” said Attorney General Hector Balderas. “We are prepared to seek justice for the
family who has been harmed.”
In addition to the above charges, Morales faces charges of false imprisonment, aggravated
battery against a household member, extortion, promoting prostitution, accepting earnings of a
prostitute, and battery. His arraignment is set for December 21st.
Please see the attached photo of Morales.
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