One of Artesia's own has been named New Mexico State Police Officer of the Year and has received a special commendation from the New Mexico Department of Public Safety.
Rigoberto Chavarria was named officer of the year during the New Mexico Department of Public Safety's awards ceremony earlier this month.
Chavarria, a 1988 graduate of Artesia High School, is the son of Guy and Jane Chavarria of Artesia.
He serves as a New Mexico State Police officer in the Tucumcari area.
Chavarria was also presented with a Meritorious Achievement Award from the Department of Public Safety in recognition of his efforts to fight violent crimes in New Mexico.
"You have made an exceptional contribution to the progress of the department through your substantial contributions in the fight against drug smuggling in the State of New Mexico," said a letter of congratulations from Cabinet Secretary Nicholas S. Bakas and Deputy Secretary/Chief Frank R. Taylor. "Your efforts have made an exceptional contribution to the fight against drugs, gangs and crime in our state's communities," the letter continued.
The Meritorious Achievement Award is given to civilian or commissioned personnel of the Department of Public Safety who display unusual attention to duty, have performed their assigned tasks in an exceptionally effective manner and who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence.
The awards ceremony was attended by Governor Gary Johnson.
Chavarria joined the New Mexico State Police in 1995.