Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has approved the deployment of New Mexico National Guard personnel to assist the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) in tackling ongoing public safety issues. The decision follows an emergency request from APD, highlighting the fentanyl epidemic and increasing violent juvenile crime as urgent matters needing immediate attention.
"The safety of New Mexicans is my top priority," said Governor Lujan Grisham. "By deploying our National Guard to support APD with essential duties, we’re ensuring that trained police officers can focus on what they do best–keeping our communities safe. This partnership represents our commitment to addressing the fentanyl crisis and juvenile crime with every resource at our disposal."
The plan involves deploying 60-70 National Guard members to Albuquerque starting in mid-May. Their training, overseen by the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security, Department of Public Safety, State Police, and APD, is already underway. The initiative aims to enhance public safety and improve life quality for residents by addressing immediate needs while seeking long-term solutions.
National Guard personnel will support various areas including scene security, traffic control at critical incidents, medical assistance along Central Avenue, prisoner transport, transit security enhancement, Metro Court security support, aviation security assistance, Shield Unit case preparation support, and operational assistance for the APD Drone Program.
This strategic move will enable APD to reallocate resources towards enforcement activities while maintaining essential services around the clock. The National Guard's presence is expected to boost officer visibility in high-crime areas and strengthen community trust through active engagement.
A memorandum from APD Chief Medina requesting this assistance and Executive Order 80 are attached.
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