What must law enforcement officers wear while on duty as per New Mexico law?

In New Mexico, law enforcement officers are required to wear an appropriate uniform while on duty. This uniform serves several vital purposes: it helps to clearly identify officers to the public, promotes professionalism, and ensures that officers are adequately equipped for their duties. The uniform typically includes specific items that denote rank, department affiliation, and may also include safety gear such as body armor as part of the attire.

Other options such as casual clothing, body armor only, or sports attire do not fulfill the requirement of being a recognizable and professional uniform. Casual clothing lacks the uniformity and identification necessary for law enforcement duties, while choosing only body armor does not satisfy the need for a complete uniform appearance that represents law enforcement agencies. Sports attire similarly fails to provide the formal identification and functionality expected from officers on duty. Therefore, the requirement for an appropriate uniform is crucial for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of law enforcement in New Mexico.