New Mexico Man Sentenced for Stolen Vehicle Chase

Darrell McGrew received 9 years in prison for fleeing police in a stolen car and assaulting an inmate

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Darrell McGrew, a New Mexico man, was sentenced to 9 years in prison for leading police on a high-speed chase in a stolen vehicle in May 2025. After swerving through traffic and running other cars off the road, McGrew lost control of the vehicle in Bosque Farms, where deputies used a PIT maneuver to stop him. The sentencing came after McGrew was recently rebooked for beating another inmate unconscious at the Metropolitan Detention Center.

Why it matters

High-speed chases and the theft of vehicles pose serious risks to public safety, and this case highlights the need for strong law enforcement response and appropriate sentencing for such crimes. The additional assault charge while incarcerated also raises concerns about inmate behavior and prison security.

The details

In May 2025, Darrell McGrew fled from Bernalillo County deputies in a stolen car. He swerved through traffic, running other vehicles off the road, until he eventually lost control of the car in Bosque Farms. Deputies then used a PIT maneuver to bring the chase to an end. The sentencing on Thursday came after McGrew was recently rebooked for beating another Metropolitan Detention Center inmate unconscious.

  • In May 2025, McGrew fled from deputies in a stolen car.
  • On Thursday, McGrew was sentenced to 9 years in prison.

The players

Darrell McGrew

A New Mexico man who led police on a high-speed chase in a stolen vehicle and later assaulted another inmate while incarcerated.

Bernalillo County deputies

The law enforcement officers who pursued and apprehended McGrew after he fled in the stolen car.

Judge Lucy Solimon

The judge who sentenced McGrew to 9 years in prison for the crimes.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge's sentencing decision will determine the length of time McGrew spends in prison for the stolen vehicle chase and assault.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of holding repeat offenders accountable for their actions, both for public safety and to deter future criminal behavior, while also addressing underlying issues that may contribute to such crimes.