N.M. chief fired for allegedly giving underage worker alcohol, letting him drive

The Angel Fire employee who brought the complaint also was found to be at fault and resigned


By Leila Merrill

TAOS, N.M. — Angel Fire Fire Department Chief Kevin Henson was fired last week after being placed on administrative leave in May, the Taos News reported.

Henson was accused of giving alcohol to an underage employee and letting that person drive a fire vehicle after drinking, Angel Fire Mayor Jo Mixon said in a statement.

An underage now former employee said he was with Chief Kevin Henson during an EMS conference in Ruidoso when Henson offered him alcohol.
An underage now former employee said he was with Chief Kevin Henson during an EMS conference in Ruidoso when Henson offered him alcohol. (Photo/Angel Fire Fire Department)

The Village Council voted unanimously to end Henson’s employment following an investigation.

The employee who brought the complaint also was found to be at fault and was allowed to resign.

That underage now former employee said he was with Henson during an EMS conference in Ruidoso when Henson offered him alcohol.

He accepted multiple drinks before driving a fire department vehicle.

Henson had no comment for the Taos News.


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