When we think about the “village” it takes to raise a child in northern Taos County, we usually think of families, neighbors, and teachers. But local law enforcement plays a huge role in keeping our kids safe, too. As the Vida Del Norte Coalition continues looking at the different groups shaping our local youth, this July the spotlight is on the Law Enforcement Sector. In modern substance use prevention, local officers are working behind the scenes to create a safe environment where our kids can grow up healthy.

Current Police Chief Esequiel Romero emphasizes the importance of education when it comes to drug and alcohol prevention for our youth. “Between the Questa Police Department and the Red River Marshal’s Office, we work hand in hand to offer classes and presentations on DWI prevention tools to our youth,” he notes. Chief Romero also mentions that he personally visits the Alta Vista Elementary once a day and the Questa High School 2 to 3 days a week when school is in session to check in on the teachers and students, ensuring a constant presence. The Questa police crew currently consists of Chief Romero, two officers, and two new hires, with one opening remaining.

The Power of Positive Presence

In rural areas like Questa, people often associate law enforcement only with flashing lights and emergencies. But a big part of local prevention is actually about building trust long before a crisis ever happens.
Whether it’s a deputy high-fiving a student during a school visit, officers mentoring kids through local programs, or Chief Romero taking the time to just listen to a teenager’s concerns, these simple interactions make a big difference. When young people see officers as approachable, real people who care about their future, it breaks down barriers and replaces fear with respect.

Why This Matters Right Now

Keeping a community safe looks a lot different today than it did a generation ago. Local officers are dealing with a tough landscape, from dangerous illicit substances to widespread underage vaping and the digital networks where these things are bought and sold.

According to data from Vida Del Norte, the solution isn’t just about making arrests. Instead, the focus has shifted toward working together on proactive strategies:

• Cutting Off Access: Law enforcement works alongside community coalitions to run compliance checks, making sure local stores strictly enforce age limits on alcohol, tobacco, and vape products.
• Cleaning Out the Medicine Cabinet: By keeping permanent prescription drug drop-boxes at local stations, officers give residents a safe way to get rid of unused medications before they can fall into the wrong hands.
• Being Mentors: Local departments are actively stepping up to serve as positive role models and mentors for youth across the region.

Working Together for Our Kids

A community safety net only works when everyone pulls together. Supporting our local law enforcement sector helps reinforce the work parents are doing at home and teachers are doing in schools. When officers have the community’s trust to enforce safety laws and focus on positive policing, our kids thrive in a safer environment.
This July, the Vida del Norte coalition wants to recognize the law enforcement officers across our neighborhoods who partner with us in the quiet work of substance use prevention.

To learn how to get involved with local safety initiatives or to attend the next community coalition meeting, visit vidadelnorte.com or follow their updates on social media.