ALBUQUERQUE – The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) is providing mutual aid assistance to the Taos Pueblo of Public Safety for their last Feast Day at the annual Pow Wow.
At a previous Pow Wow, APD sent eight ambassadors from the department and two Tactical Emergency Medics (TEMS) to support public safety efforts alongside the Taos Pueblo Department of Public Safety. During that event, an individual went into cardiac arrest, and APD officers were able to save his life.
This year, APD is sending another eight officers for support, including two TEMS officers with a UTV. Among the crew headed to Taos are two detectives from the Crisis Intervention Unit, who can assist if anyone experiences a mental health crisis.
One of APD’s Ambassadors for the Native American Community, Sergeant Michael Rico, will be leading the efforts by providing guidance and knowledge of the different rituals taking place for other officers assisting at the event.
The officers will be fully equipped with equipment for multiple incidents or rescue missions along with medical supplies through the training and expertise of the TEMS officers.
“Assisting our Tribal agencies is an important aspect that has been a mission for our department,” said Police Chief Harold Medina. “As a former Chief of a Tribal agency, I know how much aid from other entities can help with large events, and through our monthly Tribal public safety meetings, we’ve garnered strong relationships with other communities within our state.”
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