Española, New Mexico — Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has declared a state of emergency in Española and surrounding areas due to a troubling rise in violent crime and drug-related issues. The declaration was made public in a statement on Wednesday and extends to Rio Arriba County, as well as the nearby communities of Santa Clara and Ohkay Owingeh.

In response to escalating concerns, the governor has allocated $750,000 in emergency funding to support the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, aimed at bolstering community safety resources. Officials report that police calls in Española and adjacent regions have more than doubled over the past two years, while the number of police responses to businesses has quadrupled.

This latest emergency declaration marks the second such action taken by Grisham this year, as she earlier addressed similar concerns in Albuquerque. In April, she deployed around 70 National Guard members to assist the state’s largest city in its battle against crime.

“When local leaders reached out for assistance to protect their neighborhoods, we acted swiftly to provide support,” Grisham stated. “Our administration is committed to restoring public safety with every resource available to serve these communities facing great challenges.”

Rio Arriba County, which has the highest overdose death rate in New Mexico, is at the center of this crisis. Nestled just north of Santa Fe County and east of Taos County, it includes the culturally significant town of Abiquiú, known as the home of artist Georgia O’Keeffe.

Española, with a population of approximately 10,500, is recognized for its rich lowrider culture. However, the city is grappling with high levels of poverty, crime, and substance abuse, which have prompted residents to pursue initiatives aimed at fostering positive change within their community.

Recent data highlights a significant public health issue, with Fentanyl linked to 65% of statewide overdose deaths in 2023. Santa Fe and Rio Arriba Counties have reported overdose death rates that surpass the state’s average. Nevertheless, the New Mexico Department of Health indicated a slight decrease in statewide overdose deaths, which have dropped by 8% since their peak in 2021.

As the communities affected await the impact of these emergency measures, local leaders and residents hope that the infusion of resources and support will lead to a safer environment and a stronger commitment to combating the challenges of crime and drug abuse.