New Mexico Board to Review Gallardo’s Peace Officer Certification

A deputy from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has been arrested and charged with solicitation of prostitution following a sting operation in El Paso.

Michael Gallardo was arrested on April 29, 2026. The arrest was announced on April 30, 2026, via a Facebook video posted by Sheriff Michael Wood.

According to Sheriff Wood, Gallardo had traveled to El Paso on his day off on April 29, 2026, where he was allegedly caught up in a prostitution sting.

Following the arrest, Sheriff Wood confirmed that Gallardo is no longer employed by the sheriff’s office.

In New Mexico, deputy sheriffs are employed by the county, but they work for the sheriff. Michael doesn’t work for me anymore.

Sheriff Michael Wood

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office stated that it will forward Gallardo’s information to the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Board for a review of his peace officer certification.

Gallardo had served as a peace officer for 18 years prior to his employment with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.

Jail records indicate that Gallardo has posted a $1,000 surety bond.