Santa Fe, NM (KKOB)- Thanks to an increase in staffing at the Santa Fe Police Department, the city is now reporting less violent and property crimes so far for 2026. The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that the city for years had struggled to fill the high rate of vacancies, but now because of more officers, the department is able to increase patrols as well as increase traffic enforcement around the city.
During the first six months of this year, there was a 27% decline in burglary reports, 14% fewer assaults and 12% fewer thefts. A 54-percent decrease in auto theft cases, is the largest statistic to show a decrease.
The only increase was in homicides, with 4 homicides so far in 2026 compared to 3 at the same time last year.
The police department is hoping to continue expanding its staff this year, as interim chief Ben Valdez is hoping to add 5 positions and if approved would double the size of the departments bicycle unit.
