New Mexico State Auditor-elect Brian Colon has announced he will launch an investigation into and internal review of alleged misconduct and abuse of power by outgoing auditor Wayne Johnson immediately after he is sworn in.
Colon issued the following statement regarding the active criminal investigation into appointed-state-auditor Johnson and additional allegations of corruption:
“The integrity of the Office of the State Auditor has been compromised by the alleged corruption and abuse of power by Wayne Johnson that is currently under active criminal investigation by the Office of the Attorney General, and Wayne Johnson must immediately stop using the office for his alleged criminal activity, personal vendettas, and political gain.
“Wayne Johnson must immediately cease any and all contact with the Office of the State Auditor, stop using the office for any purpose, relinquish all official duties, and allow us to swiftly restore trust in this critical oversight institution. We cannot risk further destruction and tampering of records by Wayne Johnson.”
Colon says that until he can be sworn in Jan. 1, 2019, he insists the deputy state auditor take over all responsibilities of the office, stating it is critical Johnson not be allowed the opportunity to destroy or tamper with records.
In October, Johnson was ordered to reimburse a previous Albuquerque mayoral campaign fund to the tune of more than $1,600 after Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver found evidence the funds were used on an election party.
State Attorney General Hector Balderas is also currently investigating several complaints against Johnson related to his role as auditor.
Representatives for the outgoing auditor said a response to Colon’s statement was being crafted; it had not been received as of press time today.
