Governor Susana Martinez sets new initiative to monitor DWI cases

You’ll soon be able to see if drunk drivers get off easy in court while scrolling through your news feed, according to New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez.

The group, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, was awarded a 2 year 800,000 dollar contract to monitor DWI cases by the New Mexico Transportation Department, which will use the information MADD provides to publicize repeat offenders and lenient plea deals.

On Thursday, students at Mayfield High School participated in a mock crash to show them the consequences of drunk driving.

While the scenario was a simulation, it brings back painful memories for Sabina Urbina.

“If I had been there when my son was killed, I would have fought tooth and nail to get to my son,” Urbina said.

Urbina’s son was one of three people killed by a drunk driver 18 years ago. She says justice was never served.

“The drunk driver that killed my son only received 30 days in jail and a $750 fine and he’s still out there drinking and driving,” she said.

Officials say the governor’s new initiative is to let courts know the public is watching. But some worry it takes the focus off of prevention to scapegoat judges.

Urbina says any little bit helps, but nothing will ever bring back her son.

“I bargain with God so much, give me my child, back give me one more chance. But that doesn’t happen and it never will.” Urbina said.