Payout to FEMA Claims Director Sparks Outrage in Northern NM

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2.6.26 – Last week, in partnership with New Mexico in Focus, Source New Mexico’s Patrick Lohmann published a story revealing that Jay Mitchell, the director of the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon FEMA claims office, received more than $250,000 in federal relief for claimed smoke damage at his Angel Fire home after the 2022 Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire. The payment sparked outrage in the Northern New Mexico community, where many are still waiting for federal help. Lohmann and In Focus Reporter Cailley Chella went to Angel Fire to get answers from Mitchell and for the area’s communities who are demanding accountability. 

Reporter: Cailley Chella 

Correspondent: Patrick Lohmann 

Guests: 
Jacqueline Ortiz, Fire Victim  
Mike Salazar, Fire Victim  
Lorenza Ortiz, Fire Victim  
Jay Mitchell, Director, Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon FEMA Office  
Lisa Mitchell, Wife of Jay Mitchell  
Michael Martinez, Jay Mitchell’s Neighbor  
Yolanda Cruz, Community Advocate and Fire Victim  
Sara Jo Mathews, Owner, Borracho’s Craft Booze and Brews  
Anita Vigil, Fire Victim  
Andrew Vigil, Fire Victim  
Laura Silva, Community Advocate and Fire Victim 

For More Information: 

FEMA official overseeing NM fire victims fund received six-figure payout, documents show – Source New Mexico