MORA COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) – It was an unusual decision from a judge, denying the plea deal for a suspected drunk street racer, accused of killing a woman and two young children in a car crash, calling it “too lenient.” In 2022, investigators said that Jesse Blanco and two friends were street racing through neighborhoods in the Village of Wagon Mound.
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Data from Blanco’s vehicle show him reaching speeds of 123 miles per hour before he smashed into another vehicle. Irene Romero, nine-year-old Daniela Lopez, and four-year-old Annalise Romero all died. Blanco’s breathalyzer test came back at twice the legal limit.
Earlier this month, Blanco and his legal team came to court with a plea deal to bring the 3.5-year legal case to a close. The deal allowed a maximum of 15 years behind bars, but Judge Flora Gallegos refused the agreement, saying in part: “Three lives were lost, and I feel like this is too lenient, and I cannot accept this deal.”
Court records show that Blanco is scheduled for trial in August…