LAS VEGAS, N.M. — The Fourth Judicial District Attorney's Office initiated a criminal investigation into New Mexico Highlands University on July 1, 2026. The investigation concerns allegations of fraud and forgery, specifically involving a men's head basketball coach employment contract and federal immigration Form I-20 documents.

District Attorney Thomas A. Clayton stated, "When allegations involve potential fraud, forged documents, and the integrity of a public university, the public deserves clear answers backed by evidence." The office is coordinating its efforts with the New Mexico Department of Justice and the attorney general. This criminal investigation will proceed alongside a special audit previously announced by the state auditor.

The specific allegations listed by the district attorney are "Fraudulent Creation and Forgery of the Men's Head Basketball Coach Employment Contract (April 22, 2026), and Falsified Federal Immigration Form I-20." The university replied to an inquiry from the state auditor on May 27, 2026. These allegations do not accuse former president Neil Woolf.

The university's Board of Regents placed Neil Woolf on leave without public explanation in early May 2026. Members of his staff were also placed on leave. Woolf sued the university on May 28, 2026, alleging that his termination was a result of his refusal to comply with an alleged order from Board of Regents Chair Frank Sanchez. Woolf claimed Sanchez ordered him to direct $600,000 in state funds for a track facility to a contractor who was a friend of Sanchez.

The university's general counsel provided a statement signed by the Board of Regents, which denied Woolf's allegations. The university terminated Woolf in June 2026. Since May 1, 2026, the university has terminated or placed on leave at least nine administrators and other employees. Some former employees have accused the Board of Regents of malfeasance. New Mexico Higher Education Secretary Stephanie Rodriguez informed the university that it must submit a corrective action plan for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027.