A former campaign manager for New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez says he broke no laws and has faith he will be exonerated after being charged with hacking the campaign's email system.
U.S. Attorney Kenneth Gonzales announced the indictments on Thursday against Jamie Estrada of Los Lunas, who briefly served as campaign manager in 2009 but was fired as Martinez was starting her campaign for governor.
Estrada says in a statement that he disputed Martinez's assertions that he was fired.
He also suggests the charges are an attempt to divert attention from allegations of possible influence peddling in a state decision on a lease for a horse racing track and casino in Albuquerque.
Jay McCleskey, the governor's political adviser, says Estrada was fired for numerous reasons, including improperly accessing Martinez's personal emails in 2009.