Essential Financial Aid Necessary for Rio Arriba Authorities to Bolster Overstretched Public Safety Resources

In the heart of New Mexico, the towns of Espanola and surrounding Rio Arriba County are grappling with a surge in crime and drug overdose deaths. According to recent data, 83 fatal overdoses were recorded in 2025, a majority of which occurred in Espanola and nearby areas.

The increase in overdose deaths has been largely attributed to the rise in fentanyl addiction, a trend that has been echoed across the state. Fentanyl is now involved in over 65% of overdose deaths in New Mexico, up from 54% last year.

Santa Clara Pueblo Gov. James Naranjo reports a three-fold increase in Pueblo members seeking help from the Pueblo's Substance Abuse Program in the last two years. This alarming trend has led Naranjo to call for assistance from the state, federal government, cities, and counties to combat the fentanyl epidemic and break the cycle.

The Governor has responded by allocating up to $750,000 in emergency funding for resources and services to avoid or minimize economic or physical harm in the area. However, collectively, Espanola police, the Rio Arriba County Sheriff's Office, and Rio Arriba Central Dispatch have requested more funds, citing the need for overtime pay, additional staffing, new vehicles, laptops, software, and other purchases.

Amidst this crisis, Sgt. Anthony Martinez of the Espanola Police Department is a constant presence. Familiar with various "hot spots" in Espanola, including targeted businesses, condemned buildings, and concrete hideaways, Sgt. Martinez carries Narcan, an overdose reversal nasal spray, at all times and has used it multiple times.

Sgt. Martinez's daily shifts involve a variety of calls for service, including armed robberies and property crimes. He regularly addresses individuals in these areas, warning them about trespassing and potential arrests.

However, the issue of crime in Espanola and Rio Arriba County is not just about drug-related incidents. Officials from Espanola, Rio Arriba County, and Pueblos of Santa Clara and Ohkay Owingeh have requested emergency funds from the Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to address the perceived "public safety crisis." Dena Moscola, executive director of Espanola Pathways Shelter, attributes the rise in crime, fatal overdoses, and homelessness to the city's lack of affordable housing.

Moreover, the number of felony cases in Rio Arriba County has remained fairly steady the last four years, with 540 in 2022, 681 in 2023, and 564 in 2024. However, the Journal's data shows a steady rise in 911 calls countywide in Rio Arriba, with 31,280 in 2022, 32,208 in 2023, and 32,755 in 2024.

Despite the challenges, there are ongoing efforts to address the issues at hand. Kathy Sutherland-Brauw, the founder and executive director of Inside Out Recovery, states that many people suffering from substance use and homelessness face insurmountable barriers to recovery. She and others in the community are working tirelessly to break down these barriers and provide the support needed for those struggling with addiction.

As for the issue of police officers not residing in Espanola, the search results do not contain information about which police officers in Española live outside the city limits. However, it is worth noting that Sgt. Martinez commutes an hour south from his family's ranch in Cebolla to Espanola every day.

In response to the rising crime rates and overdose deaths, the emergency order contains a provision for deploying New Mexico National Guard members into service in Rio Arriba. Currently, there are no plans to activate military support for the area.

However, the fight against crime and drug addiction is not just a local issue. New Mexico law enforcement leaders have noted an increase in juvenile crime statewide, with officials in communities around the state calling for lawmakers to address the matter at next year's legislative session.

As the community continues to grapple with these challenges, the resilience and determination of its residents shines through. The hope is that with continued support and resources, Espanola and Rio Arriba County can overcome these obstacles and build a safer, healthier future.

Essential Financial Aid Necessary for Rio Arriba Authorities to Bolster Overstretched Public Safety Resources