Albuquerque Police Department patrol truck

Albuquerque Police Department

Introduction

The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) serves as the primary law enforcement agency in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Known for its commitment to public safety and community engagement, the APD has evolved over the years to address the diverse needs of the city’s residents. This document provides a detailed overview of the department’s history, services, leadership, and contact information.

History of the Albuquerque Police Department

Early Beginnings

The Albuquerque Police Department was established in 1885, shortly after Albuquerque was incorporated as a city. Initially, the department was a small force, consisting of a few officers responsible for maintaining order in a burgeoning frontier town. The early police force dealt with issues typical of the Old West, such as cattle rustling, saloon brawls, and public disturbances.

Growth and Modernization

As Albuquerque grew, so did the APD. By the early 20th century, the department expanded its force and began adopting modern policing techniques. The introduction of motorized patrols, telecommunication systems, and specialized units marked significant milestones in the department’s evolution.

Civil Rights Era and Reforms

The 1960s and 1970s were periods of significant change for the APD. The department faced challenges related to civil rights movements and calls for police reform. During this time, the APD implemented policies aimed at improving community relations and increasing transparency. These reforms included the establishment of internal affairs units and the introduction of community policing strategies.

Recent Developments

In recent years, the APD has continued to modernize and adapt to new challenges. The department has embraced advanced technologies, such as body-worn cameras and digital forensics, to enhance its capabilities. Additionally, the APD has focused on building stronger community partnerships and addressing issues related to police accountability and transparency.

Services Provided by the Albuquerque Police Department

The APD provides a wide range of services to ensure the safety and well-being of Albuquerque’s residents. These services include emergency response, crime prevention, investigations, community engagement, and specialized units.

Emergency Response

  • 24/7 Availability: The APD operates around the clock to respond to emergencies, including crimes in progress, accidents, and natural disasters.
  • Rapid Deployment: Officers are strategically deployed across the city to ensure quick response times to emergency calls.

Crime Prevention

  • Community Policing: Officers work closely with community members to identify and address local concerns, build trust, and prevent crime. At times this requires arresting criminals in Bernalillo County.
  • Neighborhood Watch Programs: The APD supports neighborhood watch groups, providing resources and training to help residents monitor and report suspicious activities.
  • Public Safety Campaigns: The department conducts public safety campaigns to educate residents on topics such as personal safety, home security, and crime prevention.

Investigations

  • Criminal Investigations Division: This division handles investigations of serious crimes, including homicides, sexual assaults, and major thefts. Detectives gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with prosecutors to build strong cases. Some cases result in arrest, view recent arrests on Albuquerque Busted.
  • Forensic Services: The APD utilizes advanced forensic techniques, such as DNA analysis and digital forensics, to solve crimes and secure convictions.

Specialized Units

  • SWAT Team: The Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team responds to high-risk situations, such as hostage rescues, armed standoffs, and counter-terrorism operations.
  • K-9 Unit: This unit employs specially trained dogs to assist in various tasks, including drug detection, search and rescue operations, and suspect apprehension.
  • Narcotics Unit: The narcotics unit focuses on combating drug-related crimes, including drug trafficking and distribution.
  • Traffic Division: Officers in this division enforce traffic laws, investigate vehicular accidents, and conduct DUI checkpoints to enhance road safety.

Community Engagement

  • Youth Programs: The APD offers a variety of programs for youth, including mentorship, educational workshops, and recreational activities. These programs aim to build positive relationships between young people and law enforcement.
  • Community Events: The department participates in local events such as fairs, parades, and community meetings to engage with residents and build trust.
  • Citizen’s Police Academy: This academy provides residents with an inside look at the operations of the APD, offering hands-on training and education on various aspects of law enforcement.

Victim Assistance

  • Support Services: The APD offers support services to victims of crime, including crisis intervention, counseling referrals, and assistance with navigating the criminal justice system.
  • Victim Advocacy: Dedicated victim advocates work with crime victims to ensure they receive the necessary support and resources throughout the legal process.

Leadership: Current and Past Police Chiefs

Current Police Chief

Chief Harold Medina

Harold Medina was appointed as the Chief of the Albuquerque Police Department in March 2021. Chief Medina is a veteran of the APD, having served in various capacities throughout his career. His tenure as chief has focused on reform, accountability, and community engagement.

  • Background: Medina joined the APD in the early 1990s and has held numerous positions, including patrol officer, detective, and commander.
  • Initiatives: Under Chief Medina’s leadership, the APD has prioritized transparency, improved training programs, and strengthened community partnerships. He has also focused on addressing issues related to police use of force and enhancing the department’s crisis intervention capabilities.

Past Police Chiefs

Chief Michael Geier

  • Tenure: 2017-2020
  • Accomplishments: Chief Geier focused on implementing reforms outlined in the Department of Justice settlement agreement, which aimed to address excessive use of force and improve accountability within the department.
  • Challenges: Geier’s tenure was marked by efforts to rebuild trust with the community and address internal issues related to police conduct and oversight.

Chief Gordon Eden

  • Tenure: 2014-2017
  • Accomplishments: Chief Eden worked on modernizing the department and enhancing transparency. His administration implemented body-worn cameras for officers and expanded community policing efforts.
  • Challenges: Eden’s tenure saw significant challenges, including addressing the findings of the Department of Justice investigation into the APD’s use of force practices.

Chief Ray Schultz

  • Tenure: 2005-2013
  • Accomplishments: Chief Schultz introduced several technological advancements, including the adoption of body-worn cameras and the implementation of a new records management system.
  • Challenges: Schultz’s tenure ended amid controversy related to police shootings and calls for greater accountability and reform within the department.

Contact Information

Main Contact Information

  • Address: Albuquerque Police Department Headquarters, 400 Roma Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
  • Phone: +1-505-768-2200
  • Website: Albuquerque Police Department

Social Media

Community Outreach and Non-Emergency Contact

  • Community Outreach Office: +1-505-244-6643
  • Non-Emergency Number: +1-505-242-COPS (2677)
  • Email: apdwebmaster@cabq.gov

Conclusion

The Albuquerque Police Department plays a critical role in maintaining public safety and fostering community relationships in Albuquerque, New Mexico. From its early beginnings to its current efforts to modernize and reform, the APD has continually evolved to meet the needs of the community it serves. Under the leadership of Chief Harold Medina, the department is focused on transparency, accountability, and community engagement. With a wide range of services and specialized units, the APD is dedicated to protecting and serving the residents of Albuquerque.

By prioritizing crime prevention, effective response to emergencies, and strong community partnerships, the Albuquerque Police Department remains a cornerstone of public safety in the city. The department’s ongoing commitment to reform and modernization ensures that it is well-equipped to handle the challenges of contemporary law enforcement and continue building trust with the community.