Clovis man sentenced to 15 years in prison after murdering a teen

CLOVIS, N.M. (KAMR/KCIT) — The Ninth Judicial District Attorney, Quentin Ray’s office announced that Jimmy Whitlock, 45, from Clovis was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to a Murder charge.

According to the DA’s office, Whitlock, was sentenced to 15 years in the Department of Corrections for 2nd Degree Murder.

The report detailed that on Aug. 14, 2022, Clovis officers responded to a shots fired call at 1100 Sycamore. CPD said upon arrival officers discovered a 16-year-old who died from a gunshot wound.

CPD determined after further investigation that an eyewitness was with his 11-month-old son at the house located on Sycamore hanging out with the 16-year-old. There was a knock at the door, the witness opened it and Whitlock along with another man rushed into the witness’ residence and began to attack the witness.

The 16-year-old tried to help the witness and Whitlock pulled out a gun and shoots the teen. The release detailed that everything was captured by the homeowner`s security cameras.

Officials said Whitlock plead guilty to “Murder in the second degree,” and his sentence of 15 years includes a habitual enhancement to each charge. Honorable Judge Benjamin Cross presided over the hearing and sentenced Whitlock to 15 years in prison finding that each count was a “Serious Violent Offence.”

As a result, Whitlock will be forced to serve a minimum of 85% of his sentence before he can be considered for release on parole. CPD said Whitlock will be released on parole after his sentence is complete.

The release added that, the legislature increased the maximum penalty for second degree murder from 15 years to 18 years, this crime occurred before the legislative change.

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