Jay Block, a senator from New Mexico, has criticized Albuquerque's leadership for enacting policies he believes prioritize criminals over residents. This statement was made on the social media platform X.
"This is why you are called KY Keller, you slide into stupidity," said Jay C Block, New Mexico State Senator from 12th District (R). "You have harmed our people with your radical actions. You know it but you have to follow along with the crazies. Put criminals and other dangerous people ahead of everyday ordinary citizens."
Public safety has emerged as a significant political issue in New Mexico in 2025, particularly following a mass shooting in Las Cruces that reignited discussions on crime and justice reform. Lawmakers had already passed legislation to strengthen penalties for mass-shooting threats, update the state's red-flag law to allow police to petition courts, and target organized crime networks. These actions underscore the ongoing debate between implementing tough-on-crime measures and safeguarding civil liberties across Albuquerque and other areas. According to the Associated Press, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed major public safety legislation in February 2025.
Albuquerque's crime statistics indicate significant improvements in early 2025. The Police Department reported a 48% reduction in homicides during the first quarter compared to 2024 (from 21 down to 11) and a halving of shootings with injury (from 66 to 33). Aggravated assaults decreased by 18% (from 1,095 to 897), robberies fell by 31% (from 232 to 160), and reported rapes dropped by 19% (from 63 to 51). Felony arrests increased by 12%, reflecting both heightened enforcement efforts and declining incident counts. According to data from the Albuquerque Police Department's National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), these trends suggest broad early gains in reducing violent crime.
Las Cruces, New Mexico's second-largest city, also reported a 10% overall crime reduction in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year, with violent crime down by 18% and property crime down by 9%. These trends mirror Albuquerque's early results for the year, indicating progress in major metropolitan areas even as state officials continue prioritizing anti-crime legislation. City officials note that these numbers are preliminary but consistent with ongoing efforts to enhance public safety. According to the Las Cruces Police Department’s 2025 crime transparency report, both cities are experiencing similar year-over-year declines.
Jay C. Block is a Republican senator representing District 12 in New Mexico who took office in 2025 after winning the election in November of the previous year. He serves on several Senate committees related to health, public affairs, rules, economic development, health services, and military affairs. Block has focused on public safety and conservative policy issues since assuming office. According to information from the New Mexico Legislature’s official website, his work also includes advisory roles on science, technology, and telecommunications.
