New Mexico Mother Charged Under Bennie’s Law Released Ahead of Trial
In Albuquerque, a mother, Leigh Cleveland, facing charges under "Bennie's Law" for negligently making a firearm accessible to a minor, was released ahead of her trial.
Albuquerque Santa Fe, NM, October 8, 2026 — In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Leigh Cleveland, a mother facing criminal charges, has been released pending her trial. Cleveland is accused of negligently making a firearm accessible to a minor, a charge brought under the state’s “Bennie’s Law.”
The specific details surrounding the alleged incident, including the date it occurred and the circumstances under which the firearm was made accessible, were not immediately available. The New Mexico Legislature enacted “Bennie’s Law” to address the serious risks associated with unsecured firearms and their potential access by children. The law establishes criminal penalties for individuals found negligent in storing firearms.
Leigh Cleveland was charged in connection with this law. Information regarding the exact nature of the alleged negligence, the type of firearm involved, or the age of the minor in question was not provided in the available summary. The outcome of her release ahead of trial is also not detailed; this could range from being released on her own recognizance to posting bail, with specific conditions typically set by the court.
The case is proceeding toward a trial, though the scheduled date or further timelines have not been publicly disclosed. The legal process will aim to determine fault and accountability under the provisions of “Bennie’s Law.” Further details are expected to emerge as the court proceedings advance.
Story summarized from the original created by Marilyn Upchurch on www.krqe.com, see more information here.
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