Sheriff updates Albuquerque on DWI reforms and new accountability measures

The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office Advisory and Review Board convened on April 11, 2025, to discuss significant updates and ongoing initiatives within the Sheriff's Office. The meeting began with Sheriff John Allen addressing the board, highlighting recent promotions, including those of Undersheriff Holly Anderson and Major Burke, aimed at enhancing the office's operational effectiveness amidst ongoing investigations related to a DWI scandal.

Sheriff Allen emphasized the importance of moving forward and implementing safeguards to prevent future issues. He noted that the Sheriff's Office is collaborating with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney's Office on various matters. A key focus of the discussion was the development of technology-driven dashboards designed to monitor various units within the office, ensuring accountability and oversight. Major Burke will oversee the implementation of these dashboards, which will track performance metrics, including court attendance and case management.

Major Burke introduced himself, sharing his background and excitement about returning to the Sheriff's Office. He discussed the potential of the new accountability measures, which will allow deputies to monitor their own compliance with departmental standards. This initiative aims to foster transparency and improve community trust.

The meeting also covered the expansion of the Sheriff's drone program, which will enable drones to respond autonomously to incidents, enhancing response times and operational efficiency. Sheriff Allen mentioned that the program is pending FAA approval and will involve careful selection of deputies to pilot the drones.

Additionally, the board discussed ongoing efforts to address staffing shortages, with 25 vacancies currently within the department. Sheriff Allen outlined plans to expedite hiring processes to alleviate overtime issues and ensure adequate personnel are available for court duties.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency and community engagement, as board members were encouraged to participate in the interview process for the new compliance officer position. Sheriff Allen reiterated the importance of collaboration with external agencies, such as the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC), to address systemic issues and improve overall operations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Sheriff's Office's proactive approach to accountability, technology integration, and community relations, aiming to restore public trust and enhance law enforcement effectiveness in Bernalillo County.