LAS VEGAS, N.M. – New Mexico’s Fourth Judicial District Attorney has opened a criminal investigation into fraud and forgery allegations at New Mexico Highlands University.
District Attorney Thomas A. Clayton announced Wednesday that his office started the investigation in coordination with Attorney General Raúl Torrez.
New Mexico Highlands University placed President Neil Woolf and other staff members on administrative leave May 1, which prompted an inquiry from the Office of the State Auditor about reporting possible fraud, waste or abuse of public funds.
The university sent a response to the Office of the State Auditor on May 27 about the management shake-up and actions by the Board of Regents. The board later fired Woolf on June 2.
The allegations
The university accused Woolf of improper hiring practices, nepotism, unauthorized contracts, financial mismanagement, Title IX violations, forgery of the men’s head basketball coach employment contract, and falsifying immigration records.
“In light of the allegations of criminal activity, my office, in collaboration with the NM Department of Justice, has commenced a criminal investigation,” said District Attorney Thomas Clayton.
“This office takes criminal allegations very seriously, particularly when it involves public institutions like New Mexico Highlands University,” said Clayton.
“The investigation is being pursued with the urgency and independence this moment demands,” said District Attorney Thomas A. Clayton. “When allegations involve potential fraud, forged documents, and the integrity of a public university, the public deserves clear answers backed by evidence.”
What happens next?
Clayton said his office is working with the New Mexico Department of Justice and will follow the facts wherever they lead.
Meanwhile, Woolf has sued the school, claiming leaders pushed him to redirect a $600,000 contract to a chairman’s friend. Woolf is seeking damages and attorney’s fees under the New Mexico Whistleblower Protection Act.
Authorities asked anyone with relevant information to come forward as the investigation moves forward. Officials said they will provide more updates as they verify facts and pursue charges.
