By Marty Mayfield
KRTN Multi-Media
Just before 2:00 a.m. November 8th, 2025 New Mexico State Police were called to 1450 State Street in Raton for a Domestic Disturbance involving a Raton PD Officer.
Upon arrival Officer Tyler Timms found Jennifer Hightree sitting on the stairs of the apartment building with her son and two Raton PD officers present. The disturbance stemmed from an argument between Jennifer and her husband Derek Hightree after she allegedly came home late and he confronted her according to the criminal complaint. The fight according to court records escalated with Derek pushing Jennifer into a dresser in the bedroom. Jennifer then called police and left the residence briefly. Jennifer and her son came back and found they were locked out and began to kick the door. Derek then let them back in with Jennifer and her son going to the master bedroom and locking themselves in and Derek sitting on the couch until police arrived.
According to the criminal complaint Derek noted that Jennifer had come home late and smelled of alcohol. He began to argue with her regarding how irresponsible she was to drive home drunk with their son in the car. According to Derek the argument moved from the kitchen to the bedroom where Jennifer made a motion toward Derek like she was going to punch him. Feeling cornered in the bedroom he pushed Jennifer away from him which resulted in her hitting the dresser.
Officer Timms then placed Hightree under arrest based on the the evidence and statements made by both parties.
