A decade after city’s ban, TV show ‘Cops’ is returning to the Albuquerque area

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A decade after Albuquerque’s mayor banned ‘Cops’ from filming in the New Mexico city, the reality show is returning.

But this time, it’s partnering with the county. And a spokeswoman for current Mayor Richard Berry made it clear Thursday that the city still wants no part in the show that follows officers as they make drug busts and respond to calls in mostly run-down, crime-ridden neighbourhoods.

Bernalillo County Sheriff Dan Houston announced Thursday that the show will begin filming with his department in April for the season set to air this summer. He says it’s a great way to showcase the county’s high quality deputies.

The show used to follow Albuquerque police officers. But former Mayor Martin Chavez put an end to that partnership more than a decade ago, saying the show portrayed the city in a bad light.