Albuquerque Police Chief Mike Geier announces sudden retirement

Police Chief Mike Geier, along with Mayor Keller, updates the public on the state's COVID-19 response at a press conference. (Ludella Awad / NM News Port)

By Ludella Awad / NM News Port After three years as police chief of the Albuquerque Police Department, Mike Geier is retiring, effective Sept. 11, 2020. Geier made the announcement on Sept. 9.  “It has been an honor to lead the Albuquerque Police Department,” Geier said in a statement. “After 47 years in law enforcement,… Continue reading Albuquerque Police Chief Mike Geier announces sudden retirement

Keller introduces new leadership of Violence Intervention Program

Family and friends hold a vigil to honor the life of Jacqueline Vigil, who was shot and killed in her driveway in November 2019. Mayor Keller is taking a different approach under the Violence Intervention Program, that combines law enforcement with social workers to prevent gun violence. (Ludella Awad / NM News Port)

By Ludella Awad / NM News Port Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller has introduced new leadership of the Violence Intervention Program (VIP), an initiative announced last year that combines law enforcement with social workers in an attempt to prevent gun violence. “This is a very unique model,” Keller said, indicating it comes from a public health… Continue reading Keller introduces new leadership of Violence Intervention Program

Albuquerque rousts people from makeshift camps, risking virus spread

A camp under the I-40 overpass in Albuquerque. Image by Marjorie Childress / NMID

By Celia Raney / New Mexico In Depth / Going against federal guidance during the era of COVID-19, Albuquerque city personnel periodically roust homeless encampments. Waking inhabitants before sunrise, police deliver orders over a megaphone for men, women, sometimes families to move along in as quickly as 30 minutes. In the frenzy of gathering themselves… Continue reading Albuquerque rousts people from makeshift camps, risking virus spread