Albuquerque Police Department revives Open Space Unit

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Some of the most popular areas in Albuquerque are open spaces. While many people come out to get away from all the noise, there’s a push to protect and keep those spaces safe.

On Tuesday morning, city officials announced the revamping of the Open Space Unit. 

The Albuquerque Police Department temporarily stopped open space operations last year to put more officers on the streets.

For months, the department tried out a collateral system where officers working part-time patrolled the bosque. But after receiving positive feedback from its collateral program, Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina says there’s a bigger way to change how the open space looks.

“I knew we could hire individuals who are more focused and able to provide service to the bosque in the law enforcement sense, but also could be utilized as conservationists who can help open space in developing and maintaining a healthy bosque above just being safe from criminal activity,” Medina said.

APD is looking to hire 12 new qualified conservation officers. 

Anyone interested can apply here.