San Juan Police Department

# **SAN JUAN POLICE DEPARTMENT, NEW MEXICO**

Under the leadership of Chief Rodrigo Fernandez, the San Juan Police Department is a committed team, working tirelessly to ensure your safety and the well-being of our community.

## Core Values

### Visionary Leadership

Chief Fernandez's leadership fosters trust and collaboration between law enforcement and our community. His vision guides the department's multifaceted efforts in crime prevention, public safety, and community engagement.

### Community Centered

We are deeply committed to our community's welfare. Beyond enforcing the law, our officers prioritize proactive community engagement. This includes regular town hall meetings, outreach programs, and strong partnerships with local organizations. We believe that building meaningful connections with our residents is the cornerstone of effective policing.

### Professional Excellence

Our officers are the backbone of our department, and they receive ongoing training to excel in their roles. This commitment ensures they are equipped to handle diverse situations with both skill and sensitivity. Whether it's responding to emergencies, conducting investigations, or assisting residents, or traffic control, our officers are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism.

### Accountability & Transparency

We hold ourselves to the highest standards of accountability and transparency. We actively seek and value citizen input, fostering trust in our operations. Additionally, we collaborate with oversight bodies to maintain ethical standards and ensure our actions align with our community's values. If you would like to put in for a public records request, which include body worn camera footage, please call San Juan Administrative Services at *1-505-142-6212*.

## History

The department's story begins with the town's establishment in 1902, mirroring the town's growth and development over the years. In the early 20th century, the first local law enforcement officers were appointed to maintain peace and order in this burgeoning community. They were often respected community members who took on the role of safeguarding their neighbors.

As San Juan expanded, so did the demands on law enforcement. The mid-20th century saw the formalization of the San Juan Police Department, equipped with newer tools and techniques to meet the growing challenges of a changing society. Police officers received professional training at the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy, and the department adopted new tactics to enhance their capabilities in tackling crime in a smaller city,

In recent decades, the San Juan Police Department embraced community-oriented policing, recognizing that building trust and collaboration with residents is essential for effective law enforcement, especially in a tight-knitted community. Officers actively engaged with the community, fostering open communication and partnerships that extended beyond law enforcement. Throughout its history, the department has maintained a commitment to accountability and transparency. This includes regular citizen input and cooperation with oversight bodies, such as the San Juan City Council, to ensure that ethical standards are upheld.

Today, under the leadership of Chief Rodrigo Fernandez, the San Juan Police Department continues its legacy of service and dedication. The department is poised to face the challenges of the 21st century with a firm commitment to community safety and well-being.

## Dedicated Units

We take pride in our Support Operation Units. They are vital to keeping the city running in a smooth and even safer capacity.

### Traffic Unit

The San Juan Police Department Traffic Unit consists of two Traffic officers. Their primary patrol vehicle is an unmarked Ford Explorer. This Unit is responsible for the investigation of motor vehicle collisions and proactive traffic law enforcement, which include writing speeding tickets, ensuring the safety of school kids once school is let out and other traffic related duties normal officers wouldn't take on.

### Honor Guard

The San Juan Police Honor Guard is a ceremonial unit, usually military in nature, and composed of volunteers who are carefully screened for their physical ability and dexterity. Only those persons who are highly motivated and maintain exceptionally high standards of appearance and conduct and show aptitude for ceremonial duty are likely to be considered.

An honor guard may also serve as the “guardians of the colors” by displaying and escorting the national flag on ceremonial occasions at official city and state functions. Finally, honor guards usually provide detachments for review by visiting heads of state. Honor guards also serve in the civilian world for fallen police officers and other civil servants. The San Juan team assists all local agencies in the areas of rifle details, flag presentations, posting of colors and burial details.

## Chief's Letter

Dear Residents and Friends of San Juan,

It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as your Chief of Police. Our beautiful town holds a special place in my heart, and I am deeply committed to your safety and well-being. I want to convey a simple yet profound message to all of you: **You are our priority.**

Our dedicated team at the San Juan Police Department is here to serve and protect. We understand that the essence of effective policing lies not only in enforcing the law but also in building strong, trusting relationships within our community. We believe in the power of collaboration. Your input, concerns, and ideas matter to us. We are committed to being accessible, approachable, and responsive to your needs. Together, we can create a safer and more united San Juan. We also recognize that community safety goes beyond traditional law enforcement. It encompasses proactive engagement, crime prevention, and support for those in need. We are here to provide guidance, resources, and assistance whenever you require it.

Transparency and accountability are our guiding principles. We are dedicated to upholding the highest ethical standards and working with oversight bodies to ensure that our actions align with your values. In the face of challenges, know that we stand resolute in our duty to protect and serve. Together, we can continue to build a community that we are all proud to call home.

Thank you for your trust and partnership. San Juan is more than a place; it's a vibrant, caring community. Let's work hand in hand to make it even stronger and safer for generations to come.

With respect and gratitude,

*Chief Rodrigo Fernandez*