ESPAÑOLA, N.M. —

A state of emergency has been declared by New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham for areas across Rio Arriba County.

The emergency is for the city of Española and area pueblos in response to a 'significant surge in violent crime, drug trafficking, and public safety threats.'

Police dispatches in Española and nearby areas have doubled in the last two years, according to the office of the governor. This includes police calls to businesses quadrupling over that time period.

Lujan Grisham said the decision was made to support local partners and ensure public safety.

"When our local leaders called for help to protect their communities, we responded immediately with decisive action," Lujan Grisham said. "We are making every resource available to support our local partners o

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