MILAN, N.M. - The monthly Donuts with a Cop initiative is for residents to contribute ideas and initiate discussions on issues that can be addressed and worked on, whether it be improvements or concerns.
This month’s meeting’s main discussion was about the growing concern over the activities of ATV riders in the area and the potential for a drone meant for law enforcement purposes.
Those who attended the meeting, as well as officers, reported the reckless behavior of many ATV riders such as speeding, provocative gestures towards law enforcement, and cutting off other vehicles. Additionally, many riders are riding in area that it is illegal for them to do so, going against the city’s ordinance and the law.
The potential liability involved in chasing after ATV riders complicates the situation, as it may inadvertently lead to accidents, which has discouraged the police from doing so.
Ideas on how to handle this included working directly with parents to instill responsibility in young riders, as well as documenting reckless behaviors for accountability. Another idea is to explore legislative action that could impose harsher penalties on reckless driving, perhaps even elevating the offense to a felony level. This could act as a deterrent for potential offenders who underestimate the consequences of their actions.
The implementation of drone technology in law enforcement was also suggested, as it could enhance traffic enforcement and aid in critical situations like missing person searches. With features such as thermal imaging and crash avoidance systems, it would represent a significant advancement in ensuring public safety. However, the costs association with acquiring drones, including the licensing and training, pose challenges that require collaborative solutions. Combining resources across different municipalities could be a way to implement this technology without overly burdening local budgets.
The public is invited to attend this meeting at the Milan Village Hall trustee board room on the first Wednesday of every month at 10:00 am.
Amerika Rougemont - CC