Man accused of killing NMSP officer pleads not guilty to federal charges
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – The man accused of shooting and killing New Mexico State Police Officer Justin Hare pleaded not guilty during his arraignment in federal court on Thursday.
Jaremy Smith, 33, of Marion, South Carolina, is charged with carjacking resulting in death, causing death by the discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, kidnapping resulting in death, being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm and interstate transport of a stolen vehicle.
Body camera video shows pursuit, capture of man accused of killing NMSP officer
Smith will remain in custody until the trial begins. If convicted of the current charges, Smith faces a mandatory life sentence or death for the kidnapping resulting in death charge, and any number of years up to life or death for the carjacking and discharge of firearm offenses. He could also face state charges in New Mexico, according to previous remarks made by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez.
Injuries reported in crash involving MDC officer
Smith is also facing 17 charges in the death of a paramedic in South Carolina. Law enforcement said Smith was found with the paramedic’s car in New Mexico when the ambush of Officer Hare happened on I-40, west of Tucumcari, in March.
