SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) A former New Mexico State Police officer who is now Espanola's public safety director will be Santa Fe's next police chief. Santa Fe officials on Monday announced the selection of 42-year-old Eric Garcia to replace Ray Rael, who resigned as police chief in March. Santa Fe had 48 applicants for the position, and Garcia was one of four finalists considered by City Manager Brian Snyder.
Garcia spent 18 years in the State Police. He says his priorities include reducing property crime, increasing police presence in the community and trying to have officers work four-day work weeks.
City spokeswoman Jodi McGinnis Porter says Garcia got the nod because of his focus on community policing, history of improving officer morale and commitment to introducing new training programs.
