NMSP’s Efforts and Alamogordo Support Resources

Between November 12 and November 25, 2024, the New Mexico State Police (NMSP), in collaboration with the Santa Fe Police Department and the Region III Task Force, conducted a focused operation in Santa Fe to address criminal activity affecting the unhoused community. The initiative aimed to identify individuals exploiting or victimizing those experiencing homelessness.

During the operation, officers made contact with 479 individuals and reported the following outcomes:

• 25 felony arrests
• 15 misdemeanor arrests
• 13 arrests related to drug offenses
• 19 arrests of habitual offenders
• 242 fentanyl pills seized
• Seizures of various amounts of methamphetamine, heroin, and psilocybin (mushrooms)

Additionally, an NMSP civilian victims advocate was present throughout the operation to offer assistance and resources to unhoused individuals. A total of 34 individuals chose to speak with the advocate, while only 3 declined help.

New Mexico State Police Statement
The NMSP expressed their commitment to understanding and addressing the root causes behind homelessness-related challenges, which often contribute to criminal behavior. They emphasized their goal of fostering positive relationships with state resources to enhance community safety and improve the quality of life for all New Mexicans.

The Growing Housing Crisis
Affordable housing remains a significant challenge for many Americans. Despite the large number of vacant homes across the country, more than 580,000 people are currently experiencing homelessness, with a staggering 28 vacant homes for every unhoused person in the U.S. However, cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle have the highest populations of unhoused individuals, while other areas, such as Detroit, face a particularly striking disparity: 116 vacant homes per unhoused person.

The Impact of Housing Costs
Rising housing costs continue to be a major contributor to homelessness. From 2015 to 2022, the number of renters spending over 50% of their income on rent increased by 12.6%, exacerbating the housing burden for many families. This severe cost burden often leads to housing instability and, eventually, homelessness.

The Unhoused Population: Key Statistics

• In 2023, over 256,000 individuals, or 39.3% of the homeless population, were unsheltered, meaning they lived without stable, secure housing.
• Pacific Islander and Black Americans are the groups most at risk of experiencing homelessness.
• San Jose, California, has the highest rate of Gen-Z homelessness, with nearly 85 unhoused youth per 100,000 residents.

Addressing Local Needs in Alamogordo
In Alamogordo, resources for the unhoused population are limited, but several community organizations are stepping up to provide assistance:

• Runners Refuge Homeless Resource Center – Located at 601 Delaware Ave, Alamogordo, NM, this center offers resources for unhoused individuals in the area.
• Otero Hunger Coalition – This coalition serves low-income and homeless individuals in Otero County, offering emergency shelter, crisis intervention, and assistance connecting to other resources. You can contact them at (575) 551-2939.
• APS Tiger Care Center – A center for homeless and at-risk children, operated by Alamogordo Public Schools, with services for students and their families. Contact them at (575) 430-0191.
• Homeless Veterans Initiative – A program dedicated to providing housing and support for homeless veterans. Reach them at (877) 426-2838.

Conclusion
The increasing unhoused population in New Mexico, as well as across the U.S., reflects the growing challenges associated with housing instability and the complex factors that contribute to homelessness. While ongoing operations like those by the NMSP aim to address crime and provide support to vulnerable individuals, systemic solutions to affordable housing and greater outreach are essential to ensuring that no one is left behind. For those in Alamogordo and surrounding areas, local organizations like Runners Refuge and the Otero Hunger Coalition play a vital role in providing essential services and resources.

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