Corporal Fornoff was one of the investigators in the Pat Garrett murder case. During a conversation with Fred, he provided detailed information regarding the events that transpired. Originally, the plan was to seek financial ruin of Garrett, dispossess him of his property and drive him from the area. This plan, however, devolved into a deliberate act of murder. Fred took whatever information he learned that day to his grave, declining to share those details during a 1960s interview. When asked about Fornoff’s reports, Fred’s response was to leave matters undisturbed, as the families of the individuals involved have grown to be respectable. As such, the Corporal’s reports are considered confidential information to remain sealed to this day.
But after resigning Fred was married in Colorado. After honeymooning in the deep snows of Salida, The Lamberts returned to New Mexico where Fred served as the Special U.S. Officer of Indian Affairs at Santa Fe from 1914-1915. In this capacity, he skillfully led deputies in curtailing alcohol trafficking among the Pueblos of Northern New Mexico. Moreover, his proficiency and dedication enabled him to be elected as the Sheriff of Colfax County. Fred then moved back to his hometown in Cimarron and resided in a humble trailer home, which was situated in close proximity to the St. James Hotel where he spent his childhood. There is evidence that Fred registered in World War 1, but his role is unclear at the moment,
 Fred successfully maintained law and order in Cimarron by joining The Policeman’s Association and became town-marshal at Cimarron. However, his commendable efforts were often hampered by the mayor’s alcohol addiction, who was famously referred to as “Bunny” Alpers. Whenever the saloon keeper would put up a red lantern outside his establishment, it served as a signal for Fred to come and retrieve the mayor. Fred would then bring his wheelbarrow and transport the mayor to the front of his residence each time.
During World War II, Fred was involved in police work at defense plants in Kansas City. After the war ended in 1945, he returned to New Mexico and briefly resided in Raton and Albuquerque before returning to Cimarron.
Mr. Lambert, who had considerable experience in law enforcement, began working in collaboration with Charles and Thomas Catron to organize and survey the land grant acquired by the Santa Fe ring from Lucien Maxwell. It is worth noting that in a past interview, Fred expressed his view that the members of this group have now become respectable. However, it is important to acknowledge that the Santa Fe Ring were masters of manipulation. They were also infamous for their involvement in two county wars that caused the loss of many lives in Lincoln and Colfax counties.
It is believed that Fred and his wife decided to adopted a young Navajo boy named Manuel Cruz, around this point in Fred’s timeline.

Following this, Fred was appointed as the manager of the TV Ranch at Ute Creek in Colfax County. Additionally, Fred took up the task of restoring the Old Maxwell Gristmill which was later bought by Les Davis, a rancher from Cimarron. Les offered Fred the opportunity to maintain and operate the Gristmill as a museum, which he willingly accepted. Fred excelled in his role, providing visitors with comprehensive information on the history of Cimarron. His interest in the history of the town led to the formation of the Cimarron Historical Society.
During his free time, Fred found solace in art and poetry while residing next to the Gristmill. Fred had the honor of contributing a forward to the distinguished book entitled, Fullerton’s Rangers, The History of the Mounted Police. His section, aptly entitled “A few words from an old mountie,” showcased his dedication to law enforcement. Fred also demonstrated his creative talents by publishing his own book of poems and drawings, Bygone Days Of The Old West. Additionally, he made significant contributions to other literary works such as A Cowboy Detective and New Mexico, A Guide to the Colorful State. Finally, Fred’s expertise was frequently sought-after as a consultant for other publications like Satan’s Paradise: From Lucien Maxwell to Fred Lambert and Haunted Highways, further cementing his professional reputation.
In 1971, Fred, aged 84, visited the northern Colfax County Hospital in Raton, experiencing stomach pain. Unfortunately, he passed away a few hours later. Fred was highly respected and considered the dean of New Mexico peace officers. His legacy lives on, and he is laid to rest alongside his wife and parents at the Cimarron Boot Hill Cemetery in Cimarron, New Mexico. While some have raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his death, such as the disappearance of his death certificate and hospital records, we will always remember Fred’s contribution to the law enforcement community in New Mexico.