In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Sheriff John Allen commended the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office drone program for its role in preventing potential tragedy during a standoff with two young brothers, aged 7 and 9. Drone and body camera footage revealed the tense encounter in February, where deputies repeatedly urged the children to drop a loaded gun. Despite one boy raising the weapon and pulling the trigger—only for it to malfunction—law enforcement managed to secure the situation using a non-lethal round to distract the children.
Sheriff Allen emphasized the drone’s crucial capability in providing real-time assessments, allowing for a safer intervention. Instead of pressing charges, authorities focused on assisting the family with access to trauma therapy, medical and behavioral support, and even grocery assistance. Notably, deputies had previously responded to the family’s home over 50 times, highlighting ongoing issues involving the children.
In his statement, Allen pointed out the broader challenges of handling juvenile crime, mental health, and public safety. This incident exemplifies the complex environment law enforcement faces in New Mexico, where there have been increasing violent incidents involving minors, such as a fatal hit-and-run and a March shooting in Las Cruces that resulted in multiple casualties. Amid rising concerns over crime and public safety, there have been calls from prosecutors, law enforcement, and Republican lawmakers for Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to convene a special legislative session to address these pressing issues.
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