Cops: APD cop drank, fled during fight

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Officer April Sanchez was already on leave from the Albuquerque Police Department when she was arrested for drunk driving Saturday. Now News 13 has learned what Sanchez allegedly did in Rio Rancho several weeks ago that put her on leave in the first place.

Rio Rancho police said it started with Sanchez partying, and ended with her losing her patrol car and gun.

Investigators said Sanchez pulled up in her patrol car, and went to party at a Rio Rancho apartment July 14th. They said she was wearing her police windbreaker and carrying her duty belt with her gun over her shoulder.

Witnesses told police she was taking shots of Bacardi and drinking beer, when a fight broke out. Police said four men punched two women in the face, one was also kicked repeatedly. Officer Sanchez didn't help.  They say she instead took off in her patrol car.

Sources tell News 13 Rio Rancho police called Albuquerque police, who went to Sanchez’s home, but she wouldn't come out. Albuquerque police then had her patrol car towed. Her gun was inside the car.

The next morning, APD went back to her home and she couldn't explain what happen to her car or gun. Sanchez was placed on administrative leave.

Then she got in trouble again Saturday; when Albuquerque police say she drove drunk to her ex-husband's house.

The ex, who is an APD Sergeant, said Sanchez was combative; keyed his car and broke the windshield.

Police arrested Sanchez for aggravated DWI and criminal damage charges.

APD will not comment about that incident or the one on July 14th. Sanchez resigned on Monday.