Albuquerque's Crime Fight: National Guard to the Rescue?

Albuquerque is taking a bold step to tackle its crime issues. The city will soon see dozens of National Guard members hitting the streets. They won't be making arrests or questioning suspects. Instead, they'll be taking on tasks like securing crime scenes and directing traffic. This move is all about freeing up the local police to focus on fighting crime. The city has seen a drop in overall crime, but there's still work to do. In 2025, there were 96 homicides, down from previous years. The goal is to keep these numbers going down. The National Guard's presence is seen as a proactive measure to maintain this positive trend. Central Avenue, a busy transit route, has been a hotspot for crime. A recent operation in the area led to numerous arrests and cleared many felony warrants. Residents like Will Stephens, who lives near Central Avenue, are hopeful that the National Guard's help will make a difference. Some residents are skeptical. They worry about the potential risks of having troops in the community. Others, like Jay Ballantyne, feel safe and think the crime talk is overblown. The police department is also focusing on reducing juvenile crime. They aim to stop small disturbances before they escalate into serious offenses. The National Guard members will blend in, wearing polo shirts instead of military gear. They won't be driving military vehicles or having much interaction with the community. This approach is meant to keep the focus on the police's main job: keeping the community safe. The move has sparked debate. Some see it as a necessary step to combat crime. Others worry about the potential for increased force or civil rights violations. The American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico is keeping a close eye on the situation. They want to ensure that the community's rights are protected. The city is also dealing with a significant drug problem. New Mexico has one of the highest drug overdose rates in the country. The National Guard's presence is part of a broader effort to stem the flow of illegal drugs and reduce crime. Albuquerque is at a crossroads. The city is hoping that this unusual move will pay off and lead to a safer community. Only time will tell if the National Guard's presence will make a real difference.