Thread: NM:Chief pushes for strict gang laws after murder

Updated at: 06/23/2009 7:33 AM
By: Eyewitness News 4

Chief pushes for strict gang laws after murder

Police are looking for Francisco MelgarAlbuquerque's chief of police is making the case for tougher gang laws after the suspected involvement of a gang member in the killing of a Denny's restaurant employee.

Police say Francisco Melgar took part in the robbery of a West Side Denny's in which employee Stephanie Anderson was shot and killed. They suspect Melgar is part of a violent Central American gang known as MS-13.

The chief says it's time the state cracks down on gang bangers.

"We have been asking the state to assist us the last several legislative sessions for gang legislation specifically. State of New Mexico statutes don't specify what a gang is or what a gang member is," APD Police Chief Ray Schultz said.

Schultz said the ruthless murder of Anderson is exactly why the state needs tougher gang laws.

Police say Melgar and at least two other masked suspects entered the Denny's at Coors and Iliff on Saturday where they shot and killed Anderson, a cook at the restaurant.

Two suspects have already been arrested—Marvin Aguilar-Lopez, 22, and Pablo Ortiz, 32.

Police say Melgar is on the run and is very dangerous.

Melgar has a tribal tattoo on his shoulder and "503" cut into his hair. Police say that is the international calling code for El Salvador, where the violent MS-13 gang originated.

If you have information about Melgar's whereabouts, you are asked to call 1-800-SOLV-APD.

Police seek third suspect

http://www.kob.com/article/stories/S991 ... ml?cat=516

yeah CHIEF, im betting that you had no problem with the gang members BEFORE the murder, did ya???

Sanctuary policies always seem to come to the forefront AFTER crimes are committed