Las Cruces Man, 32, Booked on Second-Degree Murder Charge

Allegedly... James Michael Melendrez, 32, of Las Cruces, was booked into the Doña Ana County Detention Center on Feb. 4, 2025. He faces a felony charge of second-degree murder and is currently being held without bond under booking number 2500000887. Records indicate the arrest took place at 1401 E. Lohman Ave. According to news reports, Las Cruces police arrested Melendrez in connection with a fatal stabbing. Court and news records show he was charged with an open count of murder following the incident. He remains in custody while the case proceeds through the Third Judicial District Court. The charges are allegations, and James Michael Melendrez is presumed innocent unless and until a court finds otherwise.