30-01-2025
Santa Fe Public Utilities director accused of stealing at airport no longer employed by city
SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – The City of Santa Fe's director of Public Works and Utilities is no longer employed by the city as of Wednesday. John Dupuis was arrested in December for allegedly stealing a checked box full of gifts from the Santa Fe Regional Airport's baggage claim area.
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The box belonged to a couple traveling from Denver and contained Christmas gifts including custom canvas paint prints, Lego sets, a custom leather pouch, and other items valued at over $1,000, according to court documents. Dupuis was booked into the Santa Fe County Detention Center on Dec. 27 and was charged with larceny (over $500 but not more than $2,500).
The announcement about Dupuis' employment status comes after the city said it completed its own internal investigation into Dupuis. After the allegations surfaced, Dupuis was placed on administrative leave without pay.
City Communications Director Regina Ruiz said the city does not comment on personnel matters.
Dupuis was selected by former City Manager John Blair for the role of Public Utilities Department Director and started in the position in March 2023. Before that, he served as the Utilities director for Santa Fe County for over five years. He also previously served as the Upper Chama Water Master for NM Office of the State Engineer.
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