"I've heard of cases like that, little Angel and Brianna -- a lot of child abuse in Southern New Mexico and often we do not do enough," Richardson said referring to two child abuse cases.

Richardson said he is dedicating $250,000 in stimulus money to help open the Las Cruces Child Crisis Center. The center is designed to be a safe haven for abused children and is nearing completion.

"These are very good programs that mainly are run by volunteers, and I feel the state has to help,” Richardson said.

The grant money comes as the state remains under fire, accused of not doing enough to save children in abusive situations.

Many point to the case of 5-year-old Angel Barron, who officials said was beaten to death by her own mother. Records show that three complaints were made to the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department in the six months leading up to her death.

“Government is not perfect. I'm sure we could have done a better job but we have, I believe, the commitment and hopefully the resources to make sure we have prompt notification and prompt action," Richardson said.

Richardson said CYFD is going to improve with a newly appointed secretary and a $1 million stimulus grant given last month.

"Dona Ana County has had a history of these abuses with Baby Angel and Baby Brianna and others, but we're responding and we're saying that we're going to do something about it, and not just speeches, but resources and money and $1.25 million is going to help a lot of kids," Richardson said.

Sign Up For Breaking News E-Mail News Alerts