Vasquez honors fallen New Mexico officers, praises LCPD Chief Jeremy Story during National Police Week

Las Cruces chief recognized for leadership following Young Park mass shooting

Organ Mountain News report

WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez delivered remarks from the House floor this week honoring fallen New Mexico law enforcement officers and praising the leadership of Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story as part of National Police Week commemorations.

Three New Mexico officers — including a local corrections officer and an LCPD patrolman — are being added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial wall in Washington:

• Corrections Officer Roberto Rodriguez, Doña Ana County
• Patrol Officer Jonah Hernandez, Las Cruces Police Department
• Patrolman Justin C. Hare, New Mexico State Police

Vasquez also recognized several other fallen officers from across the state, including:

• Officer J.R. Stewart, Las Cruces Police Department
• Officer Bianca Quintana, Albuquerque Police Department
• Officer Anthony “Tony” Ferguson and Patrolman James M. Sides, Alamogordo Police Department
• Officer Darian Jarrott, New Mexico State Police
• Sheriff Michael Reeves, Curry County

“Every day, across our country and in my home state, law enforcement officers wake up, put on the badge, and commit themselves to protecting our neighbors,” Vasquez said. “This week, we remember those who answered that call and never returned home.”

In his remarks, Vasquez also called for stronger federal investment in officer safety, mental health, and family support systems.

He closed by highlighting the leadership of LCPD Chief Jeremy Story, who guided the department and community in the aftermath of the March 15 mass shooting at Young Park.

“Chief Story responded swiftly and with compassion,” Vasquez said. “His leadership was grounded in facts and empathy. He showed up — not just to lead, but to help us begin to heal.”

Story, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and graduate of New Mexico State University, was recently named Citizen of the Year by the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce.

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