SANTA TERESA, New Mexico (KTSM) —Authorities in Southern New Mexico are ramping up patrols near the Santa Teresa airport following reports of stray bullets striking aircraft and nearby homes. A new joint operation is now targeting criminal trespassing and unlawful shooting in the surrounding desert, near what is also called the Jetport.
“We are grateful that no one has been injured. But we understand that repeated incidents like this quickly go from recreational activity to a public safety issue,” said Gloria Gameros, Dona Ana County District 2 commissioner.
Officials said the initiative began with a strictly educational phase, informing individuals who target shoot in the area that trespassing laws will be heavily monitored. Moving forward, however, officers are beginning enforcement with a zero-tolerance policy.
Raul Telles Jr., City of Sunland Park mayor pro tem and District 6 councilor, noted that the region’s rapid development is a driving factor behind the crackdown…