More arrests and less use of force incidents
The New Mexico State Police (NMSP)
released 2023 data today highlighting remarkable public safety achievements and community involvement in 2023. The data illustrates notable improvements in several key areas, including more DWI traffic stops and arrests, and fewer incidents involving use of force and pursuits. This data clearly demonstrates NMSP's unwavering commitment to public safety and transparency.
"I commend the New Mexico State Police for their work in protecting and serving the
people of our great state," said Gov. Lujan Grisham."Every day, their work makes New Mexico streets and communities safer."
Among the top datapoints are:
- 12.8% increase in arrests from 2022 to 2023 (6,074 to 6,850 arrests).
- 25.4% increase in traffic citations from 2022 to 2023 (139,676 to 175,143 citations).
- 25.2% increase in DWI arrests from 2022 to 2023 (1,353 to 1,694 incidents).
- 15% increase in calls for service, which includes calls that come into dispatch from the public as well as officers initiating calls (I.e. stopping to assist a stranded motorist or conducting a welfare check on a pedestrian).
- 19.9% decrease in use of force incidents from 2022 to 2023 (241 to 193 incidents).
- 17.9% decrease in pursuit incidents from 2022 to 2023 (195 to 160 incidents).
- Also in 2023, the New Mexico State Police Community Engagement and Recruiting Bureau made remarkable strides in connecting with the community, as demonstrated by a 256% increase in community engagement events (957 to 3,406).
"I am extremely proud of the hard work our officers did in 2023. As evidenced by these numbers, the State Police stepped up enforcement in multiple areas, while also utilizing force less often. We also increased our community engagement events, underscoring our proactive approach to building strong partnerships. These numbers affirm our commitment to safer community policing, and this is a tribute to the outstanding training and professionalism of my officers," said New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler. "The New Mexico State Police remains resolute in our mission to protect the citizens of New Mexico, working collaboratively with the communities we are privileged to serve."
There was also a slight increase in vehicle crashes of 5% (4,612 to 4,844).
For the latest updates, follow the New Mexico State Police on all social media platforms @NMStatePolice.