AZTEC, N.M. — Court records allege a woman was arrested in Aztec after police responded to a reported disturbance that later led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine and an additional charge of tampering with evidence.
The allegations are outlined in a sworn affidavit for arrest warrant filed in San Juan County Magistrate Court on Feb. 2, 2026.
All allegations described below are drawn from court filings and law enforcement statements. No conviction has been entered. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
What court records allege
Incident reported in Aztec trailer park
According to the affidavit, Aztec Police were contacted on Nov. 5, 2025, after a resident reported a disturbance behind a residence near Light Plant Road. The reporting party provided surveillance video that captured part of the incident.
The video allegedly showed two vehicles parked with doors open, with audio capturing a verbal argument between two individuals later identified as Desiree Shelton and Justin Pierce.
Video and driving behavior described
Court records state the video showed Shelton striking Pierce, followed shortly by Pierce striking Shelton. Both individuals then entered their vehicles and drove through the trailer park at what officers described as a rapid speed.
The affidavit alleges the driving occurred near community mailboxes and without regard for pedestrians, prompting the reporting party to contact police.
Traffic stop and arrests
Police later located the gray Cadillac traveling south on Light Plant Road and conducted a traffic stop near a Dollar General on West Aztec Boulevard.
Shelton was identified as the driver of the Cadillac, with Pierce seated in the passenger seat. Both were arrested on active warrants and transported to the San Juan County Detention Center, according to the affidavit.
Drug discovery and additional charge
Controlled substance allegedly concealed
While speaking with officers, Shelton allegedly told police she had methamphetamine concealed on her person. Deputies escorted her to the front of a patrol unit, where the substance was recovered.
Court records state the suspected methamphetamine was located inside a clear bag and later weighed approximately 3.6 grams. The substance was logged into evidence.
Statements to officers
According to the affidavit, Shelton stated she did not initially remember the incident and denied striking Pierce. She later told officers she followed Pierce out of the trailer park.
Pierce reportedly denied domestic violence allegations but admitted to driving one of the vehicles involved.
Charges and case status
Felony and misdemeanor charges filed
Based on the investigation, Shelton was charged with possession of a controlled substance and tampering with evidence, according to court records.
The affidavit was reviewed and signed by a judge on Feb. 2, 2026. The case remains pending in San Juan County Magistrate Court.
Presumption of innocence:
All charges are allegations. Desiree Shelton is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.