Homeland Security fighting N.M. gangs

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Federal agents have been working with state and local law enforcement across the country to target violent gangs.

The Department of Homeland Security has just wrapped up "Project Nefarious" in New Mexico, and it looks like they've hit the gangsters hard. While New Mexico isn't the top state for gang activity, 28 arrests were made.

In the past month, officers seized hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of meth, crack, and heroin. They also took in a couple of cars and guns.

Most of the arrests in April were in the Four Corners area, but a lot of the suspects have affiliation with gangs in Albuquerque.

Homeland Security agents say many of these gangs are involved in human trafficking and human smuggling. That is why they are getting involved.

A captain from the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Department says this team effort has helped their department during a time of budget cuts and resource shortages.

"They've been out on probably more than 20 search warrants with us," Capt. Jessica Tyler said.  "They've been involved in numerous seizures of guns and narcotics and have adopted two cases for federal prosecution."

Having federal agents involved helps push for federal charges against the criminals, which could mean more time in jail and less time creating trouble on the streets.

Homeland Security wants to continue their efforts against street gangs in New Mexico. They are in the process of moving a couple of federal agents to Farmington where they will work closely with the local narcotics task forces.