DEMING – Deming police officers continue to support federal border security efforts through Operation Stone Garden, an overtime grant funded by FEMA. The program reimburses the City of Deming for officer overtime wages, fuel costs, and maintenance, while also allowing for certain equipment purchases to assist officers in the field.
Deming Police Captain Jose Montoya told KDEM News, “Our officers participate on a voluntary basis outside of their assigned shifts, ensuring that daily operations and community services remain unaffected.”
Officers working under the grant are deputized by the Luna County Sheriff’s Office, granting them arrest powers throughout the county. They enforce New Mexico state statutes while assisting U.S. Border Patrol, primarily in rural areas.
Montoya added, “When officers begin their shift under Operation Stone Garden, they coordinate with the Border Patrol station and are assigned to a specific area based on operational needs.”
Deming police have participated in the program since 2010, with officers working nearly daily to provide additional enforcement along the Luna County border region.