Concerns Rise Over National Guard Deployment Outcomes in Albuquerque

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has expressed disappointment regarding the effectiveness of the National Guard’s recent deployment in Albuquerque, which was initiated to assist the police department in combatting crime. The deployment, which began in mid-May 2025 and cost approximately $7 million, aimed to alleviate the workload on sworn officers by having Guardsmen perform non-law-enforcement tasks.

Deployment Details and Objectives

The New Mexico National Guard’s mission was outlined in an executive order and was intended to free up police officers for proactive policing efforts. Tasks assigned to the Guard included securing crime scenes, managing traffic, and processing evidence, all without carrying firearms or performing arrests. This approach was designed to allow the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) to focus on investigative and enforcement work.

Mixed Results and Cost Analysis

While the deployment has led to some reported improvements in crime statistics, including increases in felony and misdemeanor arrests and declines in property crimes along critical areas like Central Avenue, the overall effectiveness remains contested. According to APD figures, the city anticipates a 32% decrease in homicides attributed partially to the presence of the National Guard. However, critics argue that the funding could have been more effectively utilized in other areas, such as social services or community support programs.

• Cost of deployment: $7 million
• Reported increase in felony arrests and decrease in property crimes
• Anticipated 32% reduction in homicides

Political Reactions and Future Considerations

The deployment has sparked a political debate, with Governor Lujan Grisham stating that the city could have better maximized the Guard’s capabilities. Mayor Tim Keller and APD officials have defended the operation, emphasizing localized improvements. Advocacy groups, however, are divided, with the Rio Grande Foundation acknowledging some benefits while questioning the overall cost-effectiveness. In contrast, civil liberties organizations like the ACLU of New Mexico have raised concerns about potential risks associated with military involvement in civilian policing.

Community Impact and Moving Forward

As Albuquerque grapples with deep-rooted challenges, including addiction and homelessness, the deployment’s implications extend beyond immediate crime stats. The conversation surrounding the National Guard’s role in policing reflects broader questions about resource allocation and community trust. Stakeholders are now considering how to effectively balance public safety with civil liberties, particularly as discussions about the future use of National Guard resources continue.

In light of the current climate, it remains critical for Albuquerque’s leaders to evaluate the efficacy of such deployments and explore diverse strategies that address both crime and the underlying issues affecting the community.