ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – It’s the city’s latest push to curb crime along the Central Avenue corridor. Police are conducting operations at bus stops, cracking down on some of the biggest problem spots.
Story continues below
Water: Las Vegas officials make headway on fixing water system, reaching water demand
Wildfire: FEMA inspecting New Mexico properties for assistance process
Events: What’s happening around New Mexico July 5-11
Community: Smokey Bear balloon crew raises funds to buy new one
“People that were actually using the bus systems weren’t able to do it safely, so we had concerns about that,” said Sergeant Joann Lopez with the Albuquerque Police Department (APD).
To address these concerns, Albuquerque police have increased resources aimed at keeping public transit safe for riders by expanding officer presence along the Central corridor. Last week, APD said they had 30 officers working the operation focused on the stretch between San Pedro and Wyoming.
“People that are riding the buses, we want them to feel safe,” explained Sergeant Lopez. “They voiced that they don’t feel safe.”
During that week, police say they arrested 40 people with felony warrants and an additional 36 felony arrests. A 13-year-old was also found looking for his mother. He was later connected with CYFD and is now in their custody.
“We noticed that he was really young, started talking to him, said he was waiting for his mom,” Sergeant Lopez added. “His mom never came.”
APD says since the start of the operation, businesses and bus riders have supported the effort. “We’ve gotten really good feedback,” Sergeant Lopez said. “The business have come out and told us ‘Thank you’ for being there.”
If the problems persist, police say they may extend the operation.
