LAS CRUCES — Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story received the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Hometown Hero Award on Friday during a Freedom250 ceremony at Las Cruces City Council Chambers, with federal, state and local officials on hand to recognize his leadership.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison presented the award, part of a Department of Justice program honoring local individuals for exceptional service and contributions to their communities during the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez, state lawmakers and other officials also attended.

Ellison said Story came to mind almost immediately when Washington, D.C., officials asked him to select New Mexico’s recipient.

“Chief Story immediately came to mind because I have witnessed first hand his outstanding leadership and significant contributions that he has made towards enhancing public safety not only on behalf of our community here in Las Cruces but across the entire state of New Mexico,” Ellison said.

State Sen. Crystal Brantley, R-Elephant Butte, also spoke at the ceremony, pointing to the department’s handling of the March 2025 Young Park mass shooting, which left three dead and 15 injured.

“In the aftermath, Chief Story and his department responded with a level of professionalism, compassion and composure that helped this city begin to heal,” Brantley said.

The event also included a shoe and sock drive benefiting local victims of human trafficking.

Story, who called the award a great honor, reflected on his tenure leading the department.

“When I look back over the last three years, I see so many examples of that perseverance and collaboration that lead to success. Because of that, I have more confidence than ever that in three years Las Cruces will be a better place than it is now,” Story said.

The ceremony was part of Freedom250, a nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, which the U.S. Attorney’s Office said encourages communities to celebrate service, sacrifice and civic engagement at the local level.

Story has led LCPD since December 2023, after serving as deputy chief of operations, training academy director and SWAT commander. He is a 2007 valedictorian of the department’s police academy and a former Marine Corps non-commissioned officer.