In a concerted effort to combat criminal activity, the multi-agency Operation Not in Vain has reportedly kicked off with a fruitful first week, according to the Las Cruces Police Department. The inaugural week, which started on April 28, yielded 37 felony arrests, 36 misdemeanor arrests, along with the recovery of three stolen vehicles and the seizure of 2.4 grams of methamphetamine.
Particularly noteworthy was the surround and callout at a residence on Lyon Place on May 1, executed with the New Mexico State Police Fugitive Apprehension Unit taking charge, where 10 individuals with active warrants were apprehended. Among them was 29-year-old George David Lessard, wanted on multiple counts including burglary and vehicle theft. The police shared that besides Lessard, Hector E. Gonzalez, David Joseph Padilla, Micheala B. McBurrows, and other individuals arrested also had active warrants, though running the show, five other occupants of the home were found not to have warrants, according to the Las Cruces Police Department.
Las Cruces Police Department Chief Jeremy Story praised the operation saying, "Our multi-agency team has hit the ground running and is seeing great success." He emphasized that the effort extends well beyond regular patrol duties, highlighting the outstanding collaboration and commitment of the involved agencies.
Adding to the law enforcement's resolve, New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler declared, "This joint operation shows the message we are sending to those who want to break the law." Chief Weisler highlighted the operation's aggressive stance, stating that crime would not be tolerated and pledged continued support from his department in maintaining neighborhood safety. Doing their part as well, according to the initiative's success, the first week also involved 237 traffic stops, 49 traffic citations issued, and included 12 trespass warnings, with law enforcement additionally confiscating 55 fentanyl pills.
