Diego Lopez, Reporter
GRANTS, N.M. – A routine police patrol in Grants, New Mexico, took a dramatic turn when officers encountered individuals with felony warrants, leading to an arrest and a subsequent medical episode. The incident occurred on October 2, 2023, in the North East area of the City of Grants.
While on duty and wearing his uniform, an officer was alerted via radio that law enforcement had identified two individuals, Cruza Armijo and Leroy Gallegos, who were sought on felony warrants. However, upon arriving at the scene, officers were unable to locate the suspects.
Officers then turned their attention to a property known for trespassing activity despite the presence of a 'no trespassing' sign. Upon approaching a shed on the property, officers knocked and identified themselves as police officers. When there was no response from inside the shed, officers entered and instructed the four individuals present to exit the premises.
During this encounter, officers discovered a black backpack on the shed's floor. None of the individuals claimed ownership of the bag. Upon conducting a search of the backpack, officers found three half-blue M 30 pills, later identified as fentanyl pills based on the officer's training and experience.
One of the male individuals inside the shed was identified as Clevon Cheromiah. He was subsequently placed under arrest and transported to the Grants Police Department.
While in custody at the police department, Cheromiah experienced a medical episode, reporting difficulty breathing. Officers administered Narcan nasal spray in an attempt to assist Cheromiah but received no immediate response.
In response to Cheromiah's deteriorating condition, an ambulance was dispatched, and Cheromiah was transported to Cibola General Hospital. After an extended period of medical evaluation, officers decided to release Cheromiah.
However, the incident did not conclude there. Upon returning to the hospital, an officer was aggressively grabbed by Cheromiah, prompting a physical response to regain control of the situation. Officers were able to subdue Cheromiah and calm him down so he be checked by medical professionals.
Cheromiah received a medical clearance from CGH and was dispatched, officers transported him for booking at Cibola County Correctional Center in Milan, New Mexico.
The City of Grants Police Department is currently conducting an investigation into the incident, which involved the arrest, medical episode, and aggressive encounter. Further details are pending the outcome of the investigation.