Valencia County Sheriff Denise Vigil this week criticized a settlement that awarded $1.5 million to the family of a Peralta man fatally shot by a deputy in 2024.

Vigil also said deputies "acted lawfully and appropriately" when the deputy — identified only by the last name "Chavez" in court records — shot Michael Gabaldon, 51, in the back during an armed confrontation between Gabaldon and a neighbor.

Sign Up for free news email newsletter Please enter a valid email address. Sign up Manage your lists

We want to hear from you For general questions or concerns, email web@abqjournal.com

See Full Page