N.M. Stat. § 4-41-5
Current through 2024, ch. 69
The sheriffs in all the counties of this state shall have power to appoint deputies, who shall remain in office at the pleasure of such sheriffs; except that in counties which have established a merit system by ordinance, the provisions of the ordinance shall control the demotion and discharge of deputies and other employees of the sheriff's office, except for one under-sheriff and an executive secretary, both of whom shall hold exempt positions.
NMS § 4-41-5