On March 25, the Rio Rancho Police Department began investigating allegations that a high school baseball player urinated in an opposing team’s water jug. The investigation, initiated amid community concerns and school disciplinary actions, underscores the department’s commitment to addressing misconduct and maintaining community safety.

The Rio Rancho Governing Body approved collective bargaining agreements that secure pay raises for RRPD and emergency communications personnel, aiming to improve recruitment and retention within the department.

The Rio Rancho Governing Body finalized a new collective bargaining agreement for the Rio Rancho Police and Communications Association covering 148 personnel, effective from August 15 through June 30, 2025. This agreement underscores a commitment to improved labor conditions and fair negotiations for police service members.

An article published in the ABQ Journal Opinion on November 15, 2021, highlights that the Rio Rancho Police Department has implemented a comprehensive Standards and Procedures Manual emphasizing transparency, de-escalation techniques, proper use of force, and the use of body-worn cameras. These measures are seen as proactive steps to prevent excessive use of force and enhance public accountability, setting a potential example for other departments.

An opinion article highlights that the Rio Rancho Police Department has adopted comprehensive and transparent policies, including posting its 400-page Standards and Procedures Manual online, training officers in de-escalation and use-of-force standards, and enforcing body-worn camera protocols to document police activity. These measures are presented as a model for police reform aimed at preventing excessive force and protecting community safety.

The Rio Rancho Police Department has taken notable steps to modernize its practices by publishing its comprehensive Standards and Procedures Manual online. This initiative, which includes robust de-escalation training, strict use-of-force protocols, and clear guidelines for body-worn camera usage that protect First Amendment rights, was highlighted in the context of Deputy Chief Jason Bowie’s appointment as Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Public Safety. The reforms are presented as a model for other departments seeking to reduce police violence and enhance accountability.