MDC Inmate Dies While in Community Custody Program at Halfway House

Albuquerque –

The Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center reported the death of a 45-year-old man who had been participating in its Community Custody Program (CCP).

Officials identified the individual as Andrew Witt, who was most recently booked into the detention center on Dec. 24, 2025. He was placed in the program on March 24.

The Community Custody Program allows some individuals to remain in the community while awaiting the outcome of their cases or serving sentences, under supervision by corrections officers who monitor compliance with court-ordered conditions.

At the time of his death, Witt was staying at a halfway house in Albuquerque. Staff at the facility notified detention center officials Saturday afternoon after he was found unresponsive. Emergency responders attempted to revive him but were unsuccessful. Authorities said the exact time of death is unknown, though it is believed to have occurred sometime between early and mid-afternoon.

Local law enforcement is investigating the death. The detention center’s Office of Professional Standards has also opened a review, in line with standard procedures.

The official cause and manner of death will be determined by the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator.

According to court records, Witt was placed in the Community Custody Program as part of a plea agreement under an amended sentence involving confinement. The case stemmed from a July 2025 arrest on charges of violating a restraining order prohibiting domestic violence and possession of drug paraphernalia. Prosecutors later dismissed the paraphernalia charge, and Witt pleaded guilty to the violation of the restraining order as part of the agreement.

Court records also show Witt was scheduled to go to trial in August 2026 on a separate charge stemming from a September 2025 case involving receiving or transferring a stolen motor vehicle, first offense.