Las Cruces, New Mexico – The Las Cruces Police Department has released surveillance footage and body camera video showing the tragic incident that resulted in the death of Officer Jonah Hernandez on February 11th. Hernandez was responding to a trespassing call when he was fatally stabbed by 29-year-old Armando Silva.
Chief Jeremy Story of the LCPD presented the video during a press conference, outlining the steps he believes Las Cruces and New Mexico should take to enhance community safety. Story emphasized the need to address staffing issues within the department, with plans to hire more officers to increase patrols in high-crime areas.
The department has transitioned to evidence-based policing, allowing them to identify crime hotspots and allocate resources accordingly. However, Story highlighted the challenges officers face in responding to a high volume of calls daily, limiting their ability to patrol these high-crime areas effectively.
Additionally, Story addressed the issue of repeat offenders in Las Cruces, calling for long-term solutions that address competency issues and substance abuse crises. He underscored the importance of community involvement and responsible dialogue in effecting positive change for the city.
Silva, the assailant, had a history of mental illness and criminal convictions, raising concerns about the treatment of individuals with mental health issues within the criminal justice system. Story suggested revisiting panhandling ordinances and investing in a real-time crime center to prevent crimes before they occur.
The incident involving Officer Hernandez is still under review to determine if any additional training or procedures could protect officers in similar situations in the future. Story commended Hernandez for his actions during the attack, highlighting the dangers law enforcement officers face daily in the line of duty.