Courtesy/NMSP
Courtesy/NMSP
NMSP News:
ALBUQUERQUE – The New Mexico State Police (NMSP) Uniform Bureau, and Crime Suppression Bureau continued to conduct proactive operations Jan. 12, 15 and 16, 2024 in Albuquerque, to reduce violent crime, drug trafficking and other criminal activity.
In addition to addressing violent crime, State Police Uniform Bureau have been conducting traffic enforcement operations to reduce speeding, DWI’s, lack of seatbelt usage, crashes, aggressive and distracted driving.
Over the course of the 3-day operation, 914 traffic stops were made with 963 citations issued. A total of 27 arrests were made.
Officers also seized:
- 80 fentanyl pills
- 223 grams of Fentanyl
- 79 grams of cocaine
- 38 grams of Methamphetamine
- 6 stolen vehicles
- 7 firearms (1 being stolen)
- 2 stolen license plates
Included in the 27 arrests, was the arrest of Joseph Garcia, 50, of Albuquerque, who had an outstanding warrant for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and was considered armed and dangerous. He was located inside of a vehicle while it was parked at a Walmart parking lot at Coors and Rio Bravo. He was taken into custody without incident.
Also, four juveniles were found to be in a stolen vehicle. One was arrested and charges will be filed against the other three at a later date. During the search of the vehicle, four firearms were located with one of them being stolen.
An additional 17-year-old male was arrested for trafficking a controlled substance (approximately 30 grams of cocaine) and resisting and evading an officer. He was under surveillance as part of a narcotics investigation. When contact was made with him, he attempted to flee, but was detained. A loaded firearm magazine was found on his person, and a gun was seen on the driver’s side floorboard of the vehicle he was in. He was booked into the Bernalillo County Juvenile Detention Center.
“In the relentless pursuit of public safety, the 3-day operation speaks volumes: 27 arrests, 963 citations issued, and a significant seizure of illicit drugs and guns. The operation exemplifies our commitment to making our communities safer and holding those who endanger others accountable,” NMSP Chief Troy Weisler said.
