Ayotte, Mass. mayor announce effort to combat cross-state crime

Governor Kelly Ayotte and Lawrence, Mass., Mayor Brian A. DePeña, right during a new conference announcing a collabrative effort to combat crime on Monday. (Office of NH Governor photo)

CONCORD -- New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte and Lawrence, Mass., Mayor Brian A. DePeña met on Monday to discuss how they could work together to combat cross-border crime and drug trafficking.

After the meeting, Governor Ayotte previewed additional resources in her proposed budget to target the criminal pipeline between Lawrence and the Granite State.

"I am thankful for Mayor DePeña's willingness to address the dangerous flow of drugs and criminal activity occurring between Lawrence and our state," Gov. Ayotte said during a news conference. "The more we work together, the safer all our communities will be."

DePeña agreed it was high time to begin an interstate effort to combat drug trafficking and other criminal activity.

"The crises of drug trafficking, arms smuggling, human exploitation, and gang violence continue to devastate families across both Massachusetts and New Hampshire," he said. "These threats recognize no borders and spare no community. The time for decisive, extraordinary action is now, but no single entity can combat this alone.

"I am deeply grateful for Governor Ayotte's leadership and her commitment to working in partnership with the City of Lawrence to confront this urgent crisis," he added. "Today's meeting marks a critical step forward in developing a concrete, results-driven plan to strengthen our collaboration, enhance intelligence sharing, and implement a unified strategy to dismantle criminal networks and disrupt the flow of illicit substances."

Ayotte said the collaboration will benefit both states, adding, "With additional resources targeted at this pipeline, we will strengthen our fight against the trafficking of deadly drugs like fentanyl and lock up those who are bringing this poison and crime to our communities."