New Mexico confirms David Jablonski as corrections secretary

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The New Mexico Senate has confirmed David Jablonski as secretary of the Department of Corrections. Senators voted unanimously Friday to confirm Jablonski to lead an agency that oversees about 7,500 prisoners in state and privately contracted facilities. Jablonski previously worked as a member of the executive staff for Gov. Susana Martinez, where he oversaw multiple agencies involved in public safety. He has served as deputy superintendent of the state Regulation and Licensing Department, and spent 14 years with the Corrections Department, including a stint as director of the Probation and Parole Division. Democratic Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth said Jablonski's experience in probation and parole will be important amid a state budget crisis that could mean prisoners get released earlier. Gregg Marcantel previously led the agency. He retired in October.