Joint patrols to target trespassing, reckless shooting near Santa Teresa jetport
Law enforcement agencies will launch a joint public safety initiative near the Doña Ana County International Jetport to address trespassing and reckless shooting.
The Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico State Police and Sunland Park police will begin directed patrols June 19.
Organ Mountain News report
SANTA TERESA - Law enforcement agencies will launch a joint public safety initiative June 19 aimed at reducing criminal trespassing and reckless shooting on private property near the Doña Ana County International Jetport.
The initiative includes the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico State Police and the Sunland Park Police Department. The operation will combine public education with targeted enforcement, according to Doña Ana County.
County officials said residents and property owners near the jetport have reported ongoing concerns about unauthorized access to private property, reckless firearm use and stray gunfire.
The initiative follows months of collaboration among law enforcement agencies, elected officials, community stakeholders and private landowners, according to the county.
Beginning June 19, law enforcement personnel will conduct directed patrols during periods of historically high activity. Officers and deputies will focus on educating the public about New Mexico criminal trespass laws, promoting responsible firearm use and enforcing violations when necessary.
Organ Mountain News
Property owners participating in the initiative have authorized law enforcement officers to enforce criminal trespass laws on their behalf and have expressed willingness to pursue prosecution against people found unlawfully entering their property.
“This is all about protecting our residents, respecting private property and ensuring overall public safety,” Doña Ana County Commissioner Gloria Gameros, who represents District 2, said in a news release. “Property owners and families in this area have dealt with the dangers of unauthorized shooting activity for too long.”
As part of the initiative, the City of Sunland Park is installing two cameras at the Hwy. 136 entrance, including a license plate reader and a surveillance camera. The cameras will be available to the Sunland Park Police Department for investigative use, according to the county.
State Rep. Raymundo Lara said residents near the jetport have raised concerns about reckless shooting, criminal trespassing and public safety.
“The safety of our residents and the protection of critical infrastructure like the Doña Ana County International Jetport must remain a priority, and this initiative is an important step in that direction,” Lara said.
Under New Mexico law, criminal trespass occurs when a person knowingly enters or remains on private property where access has been denied, restricted or clearly posted. Violations may result in citations, arrest, criminal charges and potential civil liability.
Throughout the operation, deputies and officers will engage with people encountered in the area to explain applicable laws, identify lawful shooting locations and encourage responsible recreational firearm use.
Residents who witness criminal trespassing, reckless shooting or other suspicious behavior are encouraged to report it to law enforcement.
The county said a news conference will be scheduled later.
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