Santa Fe Standard

The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office has completed a six-month trial of the "4/8/40 Work Well Live Well" schedule, which was introduced on October 5, 2024. This pilot project involved a new workweek model allowing deputies the option for four 8-hour shifts, totaling 40 hours. The initiative aimed to improve deputies' work-life balance and provide time for physical and mental health, replacing the previous 12 to 15-hour shifts.

During the trial, patrol deputies could opt into this new schedule, with two hours of administrative leave per shift for personal well-being. The program tracked productivity compared to the same periods in 2023 and 2024. These metrics yielded positive initial outcomes, which included a 53% reduction in overtime hours, a 69% increase in calls for service by those who opted in, and a 94% increase in traffic stops. Traffic citations increased by 84%, contributing to a 20% reduction in motor vehicle crashes due to heightened enforcement. Moreover, the satisfaction score among deputies who participated averaged 8.88 out of 10, reaching a high of 9.27 in March 2025. The vacancy rate at the Sheriff's Office dropped from 24% in August 2024 to 3%, and response times for high-priority and all service calls improved.

Sheriff Adan Mendoza and County Manager Gregory S. Shaffer have decided to extend the program for another six months to further analyze its efficacy. They will continue to evaluate performance metrics and address any issues as they arise before making a final decision about its long-term adoption.

For insights from deputies about their experiences, a video titled "4-8-40 Testimonial Video" is available. Media inquiries can be directed to Denise Womack-Avila at 505-986-2434 or via email at dwomackavila@santafecountynm.gov.