The Albuquerque City Council will meet to discuss Chief Harold Medina’s leadership, with Councilor Louie Sanchez proposing a vote of no confidence to address accountability and transparency issues within the police department. Chief Medina will attend the meeting to discuss crime-fighting efforts. Sanchez aims for Medina’s removal with a two-thirds majority vote or potential changes to the city charter. Earlier, Sanchez and Councilor Renee Grout attempted to shift the city government structure unsuccessfully.
Recent scrutiny stems from federal raids on officers’ homes and a lawyer’s office, and the dismissal of numerous DWI cases involving officers. Officers resigned amid an internal inquiry. Chief Medina was also involved in a collision, leading to legal action. Despite challenges, the Council rejected a broader investigation into Medina’s crash. Concerns persist that recent events might impact the court-approved settlement agreement with the DOJ.