L to R: Keith Pearson (Department of Homeland Security), Sean Stevens (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement), Sen. Crystal Brantley, Sheriff Josh Baker (Sierra County)Ruidoso, NM — This week, the New Mexico Sheriffs' Association hosts its annual meeting in Ruidoso, bringing together representatives from all 33 county sheriff's departments. Senator Crystal Brantley delivered the opening keynote, emphasizing the constitutional role sheriffs play as the backbone of law enforcement in the state.
"Sheriffs are the only law enforcement officials directly answerable to the people they serve," Brantley said. "That unique responsibility makes them not just enforcers of the law, but protectors of our communities' values and freedoms. We rely on their leadership to keep our neighborhoods safe and uphold the trust of those they represent."
In addition to her remarks, Senator Brantley facilitated a special briefing for New Mexico's sheriffs by representatives from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The briefing focused on the White House's current immigration law enforcement priorities and how they intersect with local public safety needs.
"I want to thank Sean Stevens, Marisa Flores, and Keith Pearson for making the long journey to be here," Brantley said. "Their willingness to collaborate with our sheriffs demonstrates the importance President Trump's team places on working hand-in-hand with local law enforcement. We must present a united front in supporting those who protect our communities."
Brantley underscored her commitment to ensuring that state and local law enforcement have the tools, partnerships, and resources they need to keep communities safe in the face of evolving challenges.
