Joseph 'Joe' Anthony Harris, Sr., a dedicated and community-minded law enforcement officer, passed away on July 16, 2009, at the age of 46. There is no indication of foul play or any suspects involved in his death. Here is a detailed account of his life and service:
Joe Harris was born in South Ozone Park, Brooklyn, New York, to Arthur and Helen Harris. He grew up on Long Island with his large Italian family before moving to New Mexico in the late 1970s with his parents.
He finished his schooling at Cibola High School in New Mexico. Harris had a strong inclination towards public service, applying to both the Marines and the Albuquerque Police Department; he chose to join the police department after they contacted him first. He began his career with the Rio Rancho Police Department in 1984, becoming one of the original dozen officers.
During his 20-year tenure with the Rio Rancho Police Department, Harris was deeply involved in community relations. He initiated and ran several programs, including the D.A.R.E. program, the G.R.E.A.T. program, Neighborhood Watch, and the Citizen Police Academy. He was also a patrol officer, cross-trained in firefighting and as an EMT. After retiring from the Rio Rancho Police Department in 2004, Harris waited the mandatory 90 days before joining the Sandoval County Sheriff's Department as a deputy, where he continued his community-focused policing.
Harris's personal life was marked by his strong Christian faith and his love for his family. He was married to Tonia Harris, whom he met in 1993, and they had celebrated their 15th anniversary just before his death. He had children from previous relationships, including Joe Jr., David, Charis, Jocelyn, and his youngest child, Allyson, born in 1999, who was his eternal joy. Harris was known for his generosity, his love for his family, and his commitment to teaching others about safety.
There is no mention of any suspects or arrests related to Joe Harris's death, as it appears he died of natural causes or other non-criminal circumstances. His legacy as a dedicated police officer and community leader remains, and he is remembered for his significant contributions to the safety and well-being of the communities he served.
