Photo Credit: KVIA
DEMING – Starting July 1st, Deming will officially welcome Sergio Lara as the new Chief of Police. Chief Lara, who has been serving as the Administrative First Lieutenant since the retirement of the previous chief, will now take on the department’s highest leadership role. Interim Police Chief Jose Montoya will revert to his previous title of Patrol Captain, a position he maintained concurrently while serving as the Interim Chief.
The Deming Police Department, currently staffed with 39 sworn officers, is divided into various specialized units and administrative roles. The Criminal Investigations Division includes Lieutenant James Fetrow and Detectives Amanda Chavez, Gerardo Rico, Ashley Standridge, and Ralph Parra. This division is crucial for handling complex investigations and solving serious crimes within the community.
Additionally, the department is supported by four full-time Animal Control/Code Enforcement Officers and a four-person office staff, ensuring comprehensive administrative and operational support.
Among the specialized units, the Deming Police Department boasts a 10-person Special Response Team (SRT), which includes four Crisis Negotiators. The SRT is equipped and trained to handle high-risk situations such as serving warrants, managing barricaded suspects, and resolving hostage scenarios. This team is provided with all necessary equipment and receives an annual clothing allowance for their specific needs.
The department also includes a bicycle team, which is active during both day and night, providing vital assistance during large public events and patrolling the city. The K-9 unit and School Resource Officers further enhance the department’s capabilities, contributing to community safety and youth engagement.
Chief Lara’s leadership is anticipated to bring new energy and vision to the Deming Police Department. With his extensive experience and commitment to public service, the department is poised for continued excellence in maintaining public safety and community trust.