Rio Arriba County Mourns the Unexpected Death of Sheriff Billy Merrifield

The office of the Rio Arriba County Sheriff reports that Sheriff Billy Merrifield died "unexpectedly" at his home Sunday morning. 

The cause of death has not been released

Merrifield was named interim sheriff in late 2021 after the resignation of James Lujan. Merrifield won an election in 2022 to become the permanent sheriff.  During his tenure his focus was on building morale and a team of honor and integrity. 

A recuitment video from Sherrif  Merrifield demonstrates the pride he took in his team and into building a team of young and upcoming professionals...

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/166oiPAFtH/?mibextid=wwXIfr

In a statement from the New Mexico Department of Public Safety, secretary Jason R. Bowie wrote, “Sheriff Billy Merrifield was a steadfast guardian of his community and a compassionate public servant.”

Sheriff Merrifield served with honor, courage and an unwavering dedication to protecting others," an Española Police Department Facebook post states. "His courage, strength, and unity will be deeply missed."

More News from Alamogordo

• Analysis: Nagamine Draws Clear Lines on Data Centers While Block Lets His News Site Speak Nagamine issues clear policy stance on Data Centers, tacit endorsement by John Block of data centers.
• IPRA Task Force Issues Recommendations to the Legislature The IPRA task force sent lawmakers 11 ideas, including out-of-state body-cam fees and an ombudsman. Open-government members opposed the changes that could weaken enforcement.