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“This is about, how do we make it even better?” Albuquerque Police Department Chief Harold Medina said. “We have a great process in Albuquerque. And for me, taking the next step to make it even better is putting it into the hands of an independent entity.”The chief is referring to the possibility of a new task force being assembled with a goal of investigating statewide officer-involved shootings.Your neighborhood: Local news from KOAT Action 7 News There have been 13 officer-involved shootings this year which is down from the 18 that happened in 2022. Although they are down, he knows the toll it takes on his officers to investigate them.”It would really be able to reduce the caseload down to a level that doesn’t impact us as much,” Medina said.This is part of the Albuquerque metro initiative on crime which details some of the things he wants to see the legislature address in January. Medina said lawmakers and organizations are in support of this idea.”They’re very interested in it,” the chief aid. “And I’ve actually even spoken to the ACLU about it. And the ACLU seems to support the concept.”Follow us on social: Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | YouTubeHowever, he also said this is something that would help multiple law enforcement agencies statewide. In New Mexico, he estimates there are 50 officer-involved shootings a year. Medina believes this type of investment would also help build trust with people and law enforcement. The task force would be a third party group with no connection to law enforcement groups in New Mexico.It’s a move he believes is vital in ensuring transparency. “We have a great process in Albuquerque,” Medina said. “And for me, taking the next step to make it even better is putting it into the hands of an independent entity.”Action 7 News On The Go: Download our app for free