Martinez's immigration order stirs heated debate

Gov. Susana Martinez's executive order authorizing state police officers to inquire about the immigration status of a person arrested on a criminal charge has fueled debate across the state.

Critics of the decision say it gives state police too much power and that rescinding the state's sanctuary policy leaves room for racial profiling.

However, governor's spokesman Scott Darnell said Monday's decision — which revoked a policy signed by former Gov. Bill Richardson in 2005 — addresses a public-safety issue and fulfills a commitment Martinez made during her campaign