Don Tarry Member At-Large PNM Resources | Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
The Department of Justice has concluded its oversight of the Albuquerque Police Department after 11 years. This follows the signing of an agreement to end the Court-Approved Settlement Agreement (CASA) between the city of Albuquerque and the DOJ. On May 12, U.S. District Judge James O. Browning dismissed CASA, marking the end of federal oversight in Albuquerque.
The decision was made after the Albuquerque Police Department achieved full compliance with all terms outlined in the agreement. In response to Judge Browning's ruling, Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller and Police Chief Harold Medina expressed their thoughts on this development.
"This is a momentous time in the history of the Albuquerque Police Department as the men and women at APD have earned the right to move away from federal oversight," said Mayor Keller. "This is not a political decision, nor is it appropriate for anyone to claim victory. APD built a foundation for modern, Constitutional policing that will continue to keep the community safe while respecting the rights of all people our officers serve."
Both Keller and Medina have been involved with CASA for nearly eight years out of its 11-year duration.
The local Chamber has long advocated for a timely conclusion to the settlement agreement. They congratulated Mayor Keller and Chief Medina on this achievement and thanked Judge Browning for his ruling. The Chamber stated that it will continue its efforts in public safety and believes that Judge Browning’s decision will support APD in maintaining community safety.
