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Council weighs state help, police staffing and DA absence amid public‑safety concerns
Summary
Councilors and staff discussed potential State Police or National Guard assistance for Gallup, police staffing shortfalls, bail reform impacts and the multi‑year absence of a District Attorney; Deputy Chief Billy Padavich described operational strain and Chief Erin Toadlena‑Pablo asked for support and public engagement.
Mayor DePauli reported discussions in Santa Fe about possible State Police and National Guard assistance; City Manager Frank Chiapetti and City Attorney David Eason emphasized any aid would be administrative and subject to statutory limits. Eason noted that the multi‑year absence of a District Attorney complicates criminal enforcement and urged stakeholder engagement before considering National Guard deployment.
Deputy Chief Billy Padavich declined to take a position on National Guard deployment but described sustained high workloads, cited rearrest issues tied to bail reform and said non‑competitive pay hinders retention. Chief Erin Toadlena‑Pablo said the department is working proactively and asked the public and Council for support; Councilors expressed support for the Gallup Police Department and for legislative changes to improve custody and retention.
