New Mexico governor cites ‘dangerous intersection’ of crime and homelessness, wants lawmakers to act

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Citing what she calls the “dangerous intersection” of crime and homelessness, New Mexico’s governor is calling on lawmakers to address stubbornly high crime rates as they convene Thursday for a special legislative session.

In issuing her proclamation, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham talked about a vulnerable segment of society that falls prey to drug and human trafficking. She also repeatedly referenced a “revolving door” within the state’s criminal justice system that has resulted in dangerous individuals and those who need mental health services remaining on the streets.

The governor pointed to thousands of cases that have been dismissed in recent years over competency questions, including many involving violent felonies.

“This should be a terrifying environment for anyone,” Lujan Grisham said, admonishing any lawmakers who don’t want to spend time to resolve the problems. “It’s unacceptable. We cannot be a permissive state for risk behavior.”

The two-term Democrat is urging lawmakers to consider longer minimum sentences for gun-toting felons, restrictions on panhandling and an expansion of involuntary detention and treatment for mental health problems and addiction.

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