Brent Aguilar leaves Clovis Police Department 'at his own accord'

CLOVIS — Brent Aguilar, the embattled veteran Clovis police officer, “has left the department at his own accord to pursue other career opportunities,” Police Chief Doug Ford said on Saturday.

Ford declined to provide additional information, referring questions to Aguilar.

Aguilar could not be reached for comment.

“He’s had enough media go through him in the past two years,” said Dan Aguilar, chief investigator for the 9th Judicial District Attorney and Brent Aguilar’s father.

Dan Aguilar declined additional comment in a brief phone interview Friday night.

Clovis City Manager Justin Howalt said he could not comment on personnel matters, but also confirmed Brent Aguilar “had other career opportunities.”

Aguilar, who had been a Clovis police officer for over 12 years, is named in four lawsuits pending in New Mexico District Court relating to his police work. Pertaining to incidents dating back to 2016, the complaints allege excessive force, assault and wrongful arrest.

Last year, Aguilar shot and killed a car-theft suspect during a foot pursuit. He returned to work a week later. Following a six-month investigation, officials stated Aguilar’s action “was likely objectively reasonable and necessary.” No criminal charges were brought against him.

Ford declined a request earlier this month for The News to interview Aguilar.