GRANTS, NM—A string of violent incidents occurred in Cibola County over the last week, prompting an increase in police patrols from Grants Police Department while Cibola County Sheriff’s Office had to place a deputy on leave following an officer involved shooting.
Anxiety about public safety has gripped the Cibola community.
GPD
In response to rising community concerns, the Grants Police Department is ramping up its efforts to ensure the safety and security of its residents.
A specific concern in the City of Grants has been the alleged activities of Gregory Vaughn Santiago on August 12, who was arrested recently for committing sexual assault against an elderly woman. Many residents of the Cibola community have shown the Cibola Citizen video footage of Santiago approaching their doors in the days leading up to the alleged assault. Learn more about this incident on Page A6.
Chief Monte emphasized the department's proactive approach, stating, 'We continue to patrol streets, and we continue to make contact with our citizens. Anytime we receive a complaint or any type of contact from a citizen, we share that information with our patrol division and ensure an increased patrol in that area.'
The department has recently hired four non-certified officers, bolstering its manpower on the streets. These officers, currently in field training, are paired with certified officers in two-man units, which Chief Monte believes significantly enhances the department’s ability to monitor and respond to suspicious activities. 'Now, you not only have one set of eyes, but you have two sets of eyes,' she noted, explaining the importance of this increased vigilance.
Chief Monte advised citizens to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately. 'If you see something, say something,' she urged. 'If there's video out there, call us. That way, we can try and make contact with that individual in the area.'
Santiago was recently apprehended by the Grants Police Department after a dedicated search following a troubling incident involving an elderly victim. Chief Monte praised the department’s quick response and thorough investigation, leading to his arrest. 'We worked many overtime hours to locate him, and now he is currently in custody,' she reported.
A pretrial detention hearing is scheduled for August 20, where the department hopes to secure his continued incarceration until trial. Results of this hearing were not available by press time.
As the community grapples with these unsettling events, Chief Monte offered reassurance, particularly to the elderly population.
She encouraged neighbors to check on one another and emphasized the importance of community involvement in keeping everyone safe. “It really takes a community to work together to ensure our elderly population is taken care of,” she said, advocating for stronger neighborhood bonds and collective vigilance.
The Grants Police Department is also reminding citizens of the importance of preventive measures, such as posting 'No Trespassing' and 'No Solicitation' signs, installing security cameras, and utilizing audible panic alarms or life alerts, especially for those living alone.
Chief Monte gave a strong message of commitment from the Grants Police Department, “We are committed to keeping our citizens and our community safe. If you see something, say something. Call us right away.”
With the department’s increased patrols and community cooperation, Chief Monte is confident that the residents of Grants can feel more secure in their homes and neighborhoods.
CCSO
While GPD focuses on increasing patrols within the city, the CCSO is dealing with the aftermath of a fatal encounter during a routine patrol.
In the early hours of Friday, August 16, 2024, a routine patrol by Cibola County Sheriff's Deputies in the San Fidel area resulted in a fatal shooting. The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Forest Road 400, when deputies encountered two individuals, a male and a female.
According to the Cibola County Sheriff's Office, during the investigation, the male subject presented a threat to the deputies, leading them to discharge their firearms. The male was pronounced deceased at the scene. The female's involvement in the incident was not detailed in information provided by the department.
The deputies involved in the shooting were not injured.
Following the incident, the New Mexico State Police Investigation Division was dispatched to the location and has since taken over the investigation.
Two deputies discharged their weapons, CCSO confirmed they have both been placed on leave pending the investigation.
In a statement Sheriff Larry Diaz said, “At this time, the Sheriff’s office is unable to answer questions as this is an ongoing investigation by New Mexico State Police.”
Cibola Community
In response to both incidents, the Cibola Citizen has received a number of phone calls, emails, and other types of communication searching for answers.
Undersheriff Jeff Marez is working with the newspaper to provide information about the case as it becomes available.
Chief Monte assured the newspaper that Grants Police Department will continue its operations and make more efforts to be transparent and proactive.