NMSP News:

LEA COUNTY — In February 2024, New Mexico State Police (NMSP) officers in Lea County began conducting proactive operations to educate drivers by enforcing traffic and commercial motor vehicle codes.

The goal of the continuing operation is to reduce crashes and fatalities in Lea County.

The operation centered on some of Lea County’s busiest roads, including State Roads 128 and 18, U.S. Highway 62/180, Delaware Basin, Weaver, and Battle Axe Roads. Officers patrolled the areas during peak traffic hours in the morning and evening.

To date, 19 separate operations beginning Feb. 8 and continuing through June 4 have netted 992 traffic stops, resulting in 1,071 citations issued and 16 arrests. Overall, crashes have been down by more than  30% this quarter.

The New Mexico State Police will continue to conduct operations throughout the year to keep motorists in Lea County safe.