Propelling Of Missiles (Ord.)
Legal Definition
A person commits unlawful propelling of missiles when they willfully throw, project, or propel any missile at, against, or into a vehicle, building, or other structure. The offense typically involves objects such as rocks, bottles, or other items thrown with the intent to strike or damage property or endanger persons. The statute is designed to prevent dangerous conduct that threatens public safety and property.
Possible Punishment
Up to 6 months in county jail and a fine of up to $500. The offense is generally prosecuted as a petty misdemeanor absent aggravating circumstances such as bodily harm or substantial property damage, which may elevate the charge to battery or criminal damage to property under separate statutes.
Local Context
This charge is commonly applied to incidents involving throwing objects at moving vehicles or occupied structures. If the conduct results in bodily injury, prosecutors may instead charge battery or aggravated battery under §§ 30-3-4 or 30-3-5. If significant property damage occurs, criminal damage to property (§ 30-15-1) may apply. The '(Ord.)' designation suggests this may also be enforced under a parallel municipal or county ordinance in Doña Ana County.
Public-Order Cases in Doña Ana County
Disorderly conduct, resisting or obstructing an officer, and giving false identification are classic add-on charges: they frequently ride along with something else in a booking rather than standing alone. Most are petty misdemeanors, the lowest tier of New Mexico offenses, with maximum exposure measured in months rather than years.
Because these charges often arise from chaotic street encounters, how a person behaves during the arrest matters enormously. Resisting is a separate crime even when the underlying stop goes nowhere, which is why knowing your rights, and asserting them calmly, is the practical advice every attorney gives.
Related Guides
Your Rights When Arrested in New Mexico: Silence, Searches, and Counsel
What Miranda actually requires, when you must identify yourself, search consent rules, and why you should never resist arrest or talk on recorded jail calls.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony in New Mexico: Sentences, Courts, and Consequences
How New Mexico separates petty misdemeanors, misdemeanors, and felony degrees: sentence ranges, jail vs. prison, habitual enhancements, and collateral costs.
Recent Arrests for This Charge (1)
Information provided for general reference. Statutory text is summarized and may not reflect the most recent amendments. All persons listed are presumed innocent until proven guilty.