Albuquerque Faces Mixed Results From National Guard Deployment Amid Rising Crime Concerns
Deployment Overview and Objectives
In a strategic move to combat escalating crime rates, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham authorized the deployment of the National Guard to assist the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) in June 2025. This initiative, prompted by an emergency request from APD, aimed to address the rampant fentanyl crisis and rising juvenile violence, particularly in the Central Avenue corridor. The operation, which lasted approximately six months and cost the state around $7 million, involved up to 125 Guard members who performed non-law enforcement support roles, such as traffic control and humanitarian aid, while remaining unarmed and in civilian clothing.
Crime Statistics During Deployment
Despite the criticisms leveled against the deployment’s efficacy, APD reported notable decreases in several crime categories during the Guard’s tenure. According to data released by the department, there was a:
- 29% increase in felony arrests
- 39% increase in misdemeanor arrests
- 5% decrease in property crime
- 10% decrease in robbery
- 4% decrease in aggravated assaults
- 46% decrease in homicides in the Southeast Area Command compared to the previous year
These figures suggest that the National Guard’s presence may have had a measurable impact on public safety, particularly in terms of arrest rates and violent crime reductions.
Governor’s Criticism and Local Leadership Tensions
Despite the reported successes in crime reduction, Governor Lujan Grisham’s administration expressed disappointment with the overall outcomes of the mission. The governor’s office criticized the Keller administration for not fully engaging in strategic planning or effectively utilizing the Guard’s resources. In a public statement, the administration highlighted systemic issues within New Mexico’s criminal justice system, which hinder the long-term reduction of crime by allowing offenders to return to the streets quickly.
Internal communications revealed that state officials were concerned about the lack of data from the city and ongoing issues in areas like the International District, despite the Guard’s presence. The governor contrasted the Albuquerque deployment with a more successful mission in Española, which benefitted from better collaboration between local officials and law enforcement agencies. This disparity has raised questions about the effectiveness of the deployment in Albuquerque and whether the city’s leadership could have done more to support the initiative.
Challenges Ahead: Structural Issues and Broader Implications
The challenges facing Albuquerque go beyond immediate law enforcement efforts. Local officials and state representatives have emphasized the need for a more integrated approach to public safety, linking crime issues to broader societal problems such as the fentanyl crisis, homelessness, and inadequate treatment options. The deployment highlighted the urgent need for coordinated responses that combine enforcement with support services, rather than relying solely on temporary solutions like the National Guard.
As the National Guard concludes its deployment, many residents and community leaders are left questioning the path forward. APD officials have acknowledged that while there have been improvements in crime metrics, significant issues remain, particularly in high-need areas like Central Avenue. The conversation now turns to how Albuquerque can sustain these gains and address the root causes of crime in a more comprehensive manner.
