A Los Lunas man who was convicted of shooting a New Mexico State Police officer during a high-speed chase was sentenced to 9 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on Feb. 11, 2022, New Mexico State Police (NMSP) Lt. Jeremy Vaughan was on duty at a gas station in Edgewood when he was alerted to a woman in distress. As Vaughan approached a vehicle with the woman inside along with Caleb Elledge, 26, of Los Lunas. Elledge fled, ramming the officer’s vehicle.
A pursuit ensued, ending when Vaughan performed a pursuit intervention technique. Elledge then fired at Vaughan, striking him in the neck. Vaughan returned fire before Elledge and his passenger fled on foot.
The following day, acting on a tip, NMSP agents located and arrested Elledge in McIntosh. During the arrest, Elledge apologized for shooting the officer. Agents recovered the firearm used in the shooting.
As a previously convicted felon, Elledge was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Vaughan medically retired due to the severity of his injuries from the shooting. Vaughan, his family, many of his NMSP colleagues, as well as numerous members of other law enforcement agencies, were present in the courtroom when Elledge was sentenced.
“The sentencing of Caleb Elledge is a significant step towards justice for Lt. Jeremy Vaughan and the entire New Mexico State Police family,” said NMSP Chief Troy Weisler. “This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face daily in their commitment to protect and serve. We are grateful for the collaboration with our federal law enforcement partners that led to this outcome.”
After his release from prison, Elledge will serve three years of supervised release.