LAS CRUCES, New Mexico — Daniel Ray Crawford, a 42-year-old man from Las Cruces, was sentenced to 24 years in prison on December 10 after being convicted on two drug charges. Crawford was arrested on November 25 after fleeing his trial in July 2023, prompting the issuance of a bench warrant by the Third Judicial District Court.
Crawford had been on trial for charges of possession of heroin with intent to traffic and possession of methamphetamines with intent to traffic. His trial took a dramatic turn in August 2023, when he fled during a lunch break. After his escape, he remained at large for several months until his recent arrest in November.
During his sentencing hearing, Crawford’s long criminal history was presented by the District Attorney’s Office, noting several second-degree felonies, including battery on a police officer. Judge Conrad Perea heard from Crawford’s family members, who pleaded for leniency, but prosecutors emphasized Crawford’s lack of remorse. They argued that his flight from his trial indicated his refusal to take responsibility for his actions.
Crawford’s sentencing concludes a turbulent chapter for a man with a history of criminal behavior, marking another serious conviction for drug trafficking in Las Cruces.