Sam Vigil, chairman of Save Our City and widower of Jacqueline Vigil, who was murdered in her driveway in Albuquerque in 2019, has emphasized the need for the city to secure neighborhoods and reform a justice system that allows repeat offenders to walk free. This statement was made on The Chile Wire Podcast.
"it was an avoidable murder that could have been avoided if only sanctuary city policies would not have been in place," said Vigil. "the man who killed her, probably felt really safe, in Albuquerque where he could do just about anything that he wanted to do. the justice system, I think, needs to be rehauled. Nobody would call me back… I called the mayor… and I finally gave up… I called Heinrich and nothing."
According to the City of Albuquerque, its 2018 Immigrant Friendly City resolution directs city agencies not to assist with federal civil-immigration enforcement unless legally required. Supporters argue it builds trust with immigrant communities. However, critics, including Vigil, say it can hinder coordination on dangerous repeat offenders and contribute to a system that fails victims.
AP News reports that in 2024, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) sued Albuquerque and the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) over a driving while intoxicated (DWI) bribery scheme involving officers and a local attorney. This prompted a federal probe, internal inquiries, several firings or resignations, and dismissal of dozens of cases. Such scandals erode public trust and can let offenders avoid accountability, underscoring calls for stronger oversight and reform.
According to KOB, Sam Vigil launched Save Our City, a political action committee advocating for safer neighborhoods and greater accountability in city leadership. Vigil previously traveled to the White House seeking federal support and organized the PAC to promote alternatives to the status quo so that "another family" does not endure the same tragedy.
