The New Mexico Highlands investigation has entered a new phase after the state’s Fourth Judicial District Attorney announced a criminal inquiry into allegations involving the university. Prosecutors said the investigation will examine claims of fraud and forgery while working alongside a special audit that state officials had already launched. Authorities said the inquiry aims to determine the facts through a review of evidence and official records.

District Attorney Thomas A. Clayton said the public deserves clear answers whenever allegations involve the integrity of a public university. His office confirmed that investigators are coordinating with other state agencies as the case moves forward. However, officials have not announced any criminal charges, and the investigation remains in its early stages.

The announcement follows several weeks of increased scrutiny at the university. Public attention grew after the university’s Board of Regents placed then-president Neil Woolf on leave before later removing him from the position. Those actions prompted questions about university leadership and governance.

New Mexico Highlands Investigation Focuses on Allegations

According to the district attorney’s office, investigators are reviewing allegations that include the fraudulent creation and forgery of a men’s head basketball coach employment contract and the alleged falsification of a federal immigration Form I-20. Officials emphasized that the investigation will follow the available evidence and determine whether additional issues require review. They have not indicated how long the inquiry may take.

The criminal investigation will proceed at the same time as the special audit announced by the state auditor. Authorities believe the two reviews will help establish a clearer understanding of the university’s administrative practices. Meanwhile, investigators continue collecting documents and other relevant information.

University officials previously provided information to the state auditor in response to questions about the reported allegations. However, the district attorney’s announcement did not indicate that every allegation submitted to the auditor is part of the criminal investigation. Instead, prosecutors said they will examine the evidence before reaching any conclusions.

University Faces Continued Oversight

The investigation comes during a period of significant leadership changes at New Mexico Highlands University. In addition to the administrative changes, legal disputes involving former university leadership have attracted public attention. Even so, the district attorney’s announcement focused specifically on the alleged fraud and forgery claims rather than other ongoing legal matters.

Education experts note that investigations involving public universities often require careful examination because they involve public funding, institutional governance, and regulatory compliance. Therefore, officials are expected to review documents thoroughly before making any decisions about possible next steps. At this stage, the investigation remains active, and no findings have been announced.

Authorities have encouraged patience while the investigation continues. They say the goal is to establish the facts through a fair and transparent process. Additional information may become available as investigators complete their review and determine whether further action is appropriate.