New Mexico National Guard deploys to Española in Oct to combat crime and overdoses with $750K state funding.

The New Mexico National Guard is set to deploy to Española in early October to assist with rising crime, drug overdoses, and public safety challenges, following a state emergency order and $750,000 in funding from Governor Michelle Luján Grisham. While the exact number of troops and duties are still being finalized, the Guard may support local police with tasks like traffic control, surveillance, and administrative work, similar to its role in Albuquerque. Police Chief Mizel Garcia emphasized community engagement and cultural sensitivity, noting ongoing efforts to build trust. The deployment aims to help address staffing shortages and a surge in overdose deaths linked to fentanyl, though some lawmakers and civil rights advocates have raised concerns about the growing military presence in domestic affairs.