Guard accused of raping inmate

ESPAÑOLA, N.M. (KRQE) - An Española jail guard is accused of letting a drunk woman out of her cell, taking her in his personal vehicle, and raping her before dropping her off at home.

Joey Montoya, 21, was arrested Saturday after the woman's mother called police.

According to police, the drunk woman was brought to the Española detention center to sober up Friday night. Montoya was one of two guards working the overnight shift.

Early Saturday morning, while still on duty, Montoya allegedly offered to take the woman home. She agreed.

While driving her home, Montoya allegedly pulled over his truck in the desert on the outskirts of Española and raped her. He then drove her home and told her not to tell anybody because he could get in a lot of trouble.

Española Police Chief Julian Gonzales said Montoya didn't have the authority to release the woman or drive her home.

The woman told her mother what happened. Her mother immediately contacted police.

Ted Garcia, the director of the Española Detention Center, said he is reviewing the overnight staffing policies to keep a better eye on the inmates and the staff.

"It's pretty severe," Garcia said. "It's a big upset to our staff, to myself, and to the city."

Gonzales said the incident damaged the community's trust in law enforcement.

"It's an obvious let down when you have someone entrusted with the caretaking of prisoners," Gonzales said.

Montoya faces charges of rape and threatening an inmate. More charges could be filed later.

News 13 has also learned the second jail guard on duty with Montoya has also been placed on paid leave. He has yet to be charged with anything, but is under investigation. EDC Director Ted Garcia didn't say why.

Montoya bailed out of jail on Monday.

News 13 stopped by Montoya's home Monday to try to get his side of the story. No one answered.