Los Lunas Police Department announces its Employees of the Year

LOS LUNAS—The Los Lunas Police Department have announced its 2018 Employees of the Year.

With so many hard working and dedicated employees within the department, it was not an easy task.

The following employees have been nominated by their peers and supervisors for their exemplary levels of service they provide to the members of the department and community.

Sgt. Anthony Baca

Sgt. Anthony Baca was promoted to the position of sergeant on May 19, 2018, after finishing No. 1 on the sergeant promotional process.

Since that time he has far exceeded the expectations of a new supervisor.

Initially, Sgt. Baca was assigned to the DWI unit, followed by the graveyard patrol shift. During his short time on the DWI unit, he made nine DWI arrests.

When assigned to the graveyard patrol shift, his transition was seamless. He immediately structured his shift to meet the needs of the community and the department.

Sgt. Baca consistently makes his expectations clear to his subordinates and offers clarification when needed.

He leads his team by example and is a good role model.

Officer Xiomara Sanchez

Officer Xiomara Sanchez began her tenure with the Los Lunas Police Department in 2015.

She brought experience gained from her prior position as an officer with the Albuquerque Public Schools Police Department. Her transition was seamless, and she has excelled in her role as a patrol officer with the Los Lunas Police Department.

In 2018, Officer Sanchez took an active interest in traffic enforcement. As a result, she wrote 835 traffic citations. Officer Sanchez’ increased traffic enforcement not only serves as a visual deterrent to criminal offenders, but also identified crimes in progress.

Officer Sanchez also received a nomination from the Traffic Enforcement Division supervisor who has taken note of the “strong work ethic” she demonstrates on a daily basis.

Julia Vazquez

Evidence technician Julia Vazquez started with the Los Lunas Police Department in June 2018. Since that time, she has continued to display the motivation, dedication and reliability in everything she does.

Vazquez inherited an evidence room in need of some restructuring and she took on the challenge with open arms.

Currently, the processing of evidence is more streamlined, accurate and dependable than it has ever been. The department said they are very fortunate to have Vazquez on their team.