Why Are New Mexico’s Children At Risk?

When it comes to overall child well-being in New Mexico, the state ranks 50th in the nation according to a 'Kids Count' report. But that ranking doesn't even include child abuse and neglect data. What sort of indicators are used to measure child welfare? And how can New Mexico move out of last place? Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office Lieutenant Amy Dudewicz has had a long career in local law enforcement dealing with cases of child abuse. Lt. Dudewicz and KRQE Investigative Reporter Ann Pierret join Chris and Gabby to discuss the complexities of the state's system of holding child abusers accountable and some of the biggest challenges for law enforcement. 

• Watch Ann's investigation: Inside the complex system of holding child abusers accountable 

We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST.