In Albuquerque, NM, residents are expressing mixed feelings about the impact of substance abuse and crime in their neighborhoods, particularly along Central Avenue. Retired chef Vir Stevens illustrated the ongoing challenges he faces with a growing homeless population and visible drug use near his home, emphasizing his coping strategy of ignoring the issues. Stevens welcomed the upcoming deployment of National Guard members to assist the police in addressing juvenile crime and curbing drug flow, particularly fentanyl and opioids.
However, despite overall crime rates in Albuquerque declining slightly, city officials are hoping to build on this momentum. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s emergency declaration allows the National Guard to take on supportive roles, freeing up police officers to focus more on active crime prevention. City leaders indicate that the plan is a positive step to further reduce crime, with a noted decrease in murders over the last few years.
Local business owners and residents are generally supportive of the initiative, citing insufficient police presence. Some residents, however, believe reports of crime in the city are exaggerated and feel safe in their neighborhoods. Concerns were raised by advocates for civil rights regarding the potential for excessive force or mismanagement by increased police presence.
The program aims to address juvenile crimes and manage ongoing public safety issues, with measures being taken to ensure that National Guard personnel engage minimally and wear non-military attire. Nonetheless, local skepticism remains, with some questioning the appropriateness of the military’s role in community safety, as they will also be involved in non-enforcement tasks like distributing water to the homeless.
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