Tucumcari Man, 18, Booked on Aggravated Dwi and Multiple Traffic Charges

Allegedly... Thomas Helmut Payn, 18, of Tucumcari, was booked into the Doña Ana County Detention Center on Oct. 11, 2026. He faces several misdemeanor charges including aggravated DWI, minor in possession of alcohol, and reckless driving. Records show the arrest occurred at the intersection of University Avenue and Locust Street in Las Cruces, with no bond set at the time of booking. The charges stem from a traffic stop where Payn was also cited for running a red signal light and possessing an open container. Additional citations include operating a vehicle with no insurance and having no registration or an expired plate. An aggravated DWI charge in New Mexico typically involves a blood alcohol content of .16 or higher, or a refusal to submit to testing following an arrest. The charges are allegations, and Payn is presumed innocent unless and until a court finds otherwise.