‘Operation Not in Vain’ Begins Aug. 5

The Las Cruces Police Department is teaming with several local and federal law enforcement agencies for Operation Not in Vain, a months-long crime reduction project in memory of fallen Officer Jonah Hernandez.

LCPD Officer Jonah Hernandez was killed in the line of duty Feb. 11, 2024, after responding to a trespassing call at a vacant building on the 300 block of south Valley Drive. The men and women of the Las Cruces Police Department have committed to ensure that Hernandez’s service to the community be remembered.

“We want Jonah’s family and friends, as well as our community, to know that he did not die in vain,” said LCPD Chief Jeremy Story. “Jonah’s life, and his commitment to Las Cruces, will never be forgotten.

“We’re going to do everything that is in our control to make Las Cruces safer for all of our residents.”

Hernandez was from El Paso, Texas, and served two years with the Las Cruces Police Department.

Operation Not in Vain will utilize law enforcement personnel from the Las Cruces Police Department, New Mexico State Police, the U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration and representatives from the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Operation Not in Vain will target violent and property crimes, persons with outstanding warrants, repeat offenders, traffic enforcement and quality of life crimes. The project will also offer an engagement aspect with law enforcement personnel reaching out to Las Cruces residents and local businesses.

The operation begins Aug. 5 and is anticipated to run through November 2024.