Newsroom

On Friday, May 1, 2026, Sheriff James Villanueva officially swore in Jasey Rice as the newest Detention Officer. Surrounded by her colleagues, she proudly took the oath of office and was presented with her badge. Jasey joins the agency with prior experience as a detention officer, bringing valuable knowledge and skills that will strengthen daily operations. We are proud to welcome Detention Officer Rice to our team and look forward to her service.

The Nolan County Jail has successfully completed a limited compliance review conducted by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards, with no deficiencies identified. During the review, multiple operational areas were thoroughly examined, including inspection certifications, equipment maintenance records, and training documentation covering facility safety, medical services, inmate management, and staffing and administrative procedures. This comprehensive evaluation was conducted

Investigators with the Nolan County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division recently concluded a series of compliance checks targeting local game rooms, working in coordination with the Roscoe Police Department and the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. The inspections, conducted over the past two weeks, focused on the Golden Dragon game room in Roscoe and the Diamond Knights game room in Sweetwater. During the operation, investigators identified multiple violati

If you noticed an increased presence of law enforcement personnel yesterday, rest assured there was no cause for concern unless you have outstanding warrants or are engaged in illegal activity. On Friday, April 10, 2026 the Nolan County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division led a coordinated enforcement effort known as the “Where’s Waldo” operation, working in partnership with multiple agencies, including the United States Department of Homeland Security, the Texa

On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, a Nolan County deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling along U.S. Highway 84 for a traffic violation. A secondary deputy arrived on scene to assist, and during the roadside investigation, the driver identified as Raymond Ornelas Jr. of Snyder, was taken into custody. As the investigation continued, deputies discovered over three pounds of Methamphetamine, along with a quantity of Promethazine, inside Ornelas’ vehicle. He was subseque

James Villanueva, Sheriff of Nolan County, along with Jail Administrator Marsha Harris and Jail Sergeant Israel Vera, proudly announce the graduation of three detention officers from Basic Corrections Officer Training at West Central Texas Law Enforcement Academy in Abilene. Jail Administrator Marsha Harris and Detention Officer Jacob Lopez Jail Corporal Jerry "JC" Watts and Detention Officer Daniel Mendoza Jail Sergeant Israel Vera and Detention Officer Hanna Vera Jacob Lope

Sheriff James Villanueva is proud to announce the promotion of Aaron Castillo from Jailer to Jail Corporal at the Nolan County Jail. Corporal Castillo has demonstrated strong work ethic, professionalism, and a commitment to the safety and security of the facility. His dedication to his duties and the respect he has earned from both his peers and supervisors have prepared him well for this leadership role. As a Jail Corporal, he will take on additional supervisory responsibili

Nolan County Detention Officers continue to receive ongoing training to ensure they are prepared to respond to a wide range of situations. Most recently, officers completed training on the proper administration of Narcan, a medication used to reverse the effects of opioid overdoses. This training is part of the Nolan County Sheriff’s Office’s continued commitment to safety, preparedness, and professional development. By equipping detention officers with the knowledge and skil

During the Nolan County Commissioners Court meeting held this morning, a service award presentation was conducted to recognize county employees for their dedication and years of service. A total of seven Nolan County employees were honored during the presentation. The Nolan County Sheriff’s Office was well represented, with three employees receiving service awards. Deputy Sheriff Daniel King was recognized for his 15 years of service to Nolan County. Deputy Sheriff Randall Ro

Roads are expected to become dangerous or impassable due to ice, snow, and freezing rain. Deputies and other area law enforcement, including work crews will be out in force this weekend to respond to crashes and weather-related emergencies as icy conditions develop on roadways. Despite increased patrols, the Nolan County Sheriff's Office strongly urges everyone to stay off the roads and avoid becoming stranded. For those who must travel, below are some basic tips on how to pr

The Nolan County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff James E. Villanueva, announces key accomplishments and milestones from 2025. The year brought strengthened public safety programs, operational improvements, successful investigations, expanded community outreach, and investments in training and technology that together enhanced service to Nolan County residents. Key 2025 highlights. From January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025, the Nolan County Sheriff’s Of

Eric Acosta and Jail Sergeant Israel Vera The Nolan County Sheriff's Office Jail Division remains committed to public safety while also supporting inmate rehabilitation and successful reintegration into the community. Through voluntary programs, the Jail Division provides inmates with opportunities to gain valuable work experience and job skills prior to release. One of the most common programs offered is the Inmate Work Program, which allows qualifying inmates to assist with

We are pleased to announce that Corporal Jerry C. (JC) Watts of the Nolan County Sheriff’s Office Jail Division has been awarded the Jerry Baggs Memorial Scholarship to attend the National Jail Leadership Command Academy (NJLCA) at the Correctional Management Institute of Texas, Sam Houston State University. The scholarship covers full attendance and supports Watts’ leadership development. NJLCA offers advanced training in jail leadership, policy, inmate management, and crisi

On December 16, 2025, eight inmates at the Nolan County Jail were baptized, marking a spiritual rebirth for those participating. The individuals who participated included Mark Hay, Eric Acosta, Scott Garza, Adam Garza, Daniel Kennedy, Michael Keller, and Elias Olguin. Participation was voluntary and coordinated through approved inmate program procedures. The ceremony was conducted by authorized community volunteers Louis Palacios, James Hogue, and Richard Acuna. The Nolan Cou

On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, Sheriff James Villanueva proudly swore in Jacob Gonzalez as a Deputy Sheriff with the Nolan County Sheriff's Office. The ceremony marked a return for Jacob, who has been away from law enforcement but is eager to rejoin the ranks. Jacob Gonzalez is no stranger to the Nolan County Sheriff's Office. Before his time away, he served in two critical roles: Detention Officer in the jail and Deputy Sheriff in the patrol division. His diverse experience a

The Nolan County Sheriff’s Office hosted its 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat on Tuesday, October 28, bringing together local businesses, first responders, and residents for an evening of fun, safety, and community engagement. The event transformed the parking area into a vibrant gathering filled with laughter, excitement, and festive costumes, creating lasting memories for all. A wide range of organizations contributed to the event’s success, each setting up themed displays and tre

Ten female inmates at the Nolan County Jail took part in a baptism ceremony on Tuesday morning, October 28, 2025, marking a moment of spiritual renewal and personal transformation. The event was part of the jail’s ongoing ministry outreach program, which offers inmates opportunities to explore their faith and make positive life changes during and after incarceration. Led by Alexandrea “Nikki” Lawhon and Soccorro “Corey” Starkey from Identity Church in Sweetwater, the women, A

Over the past two weeks, several position changes and promotions have taken place within the Nolan County Sheriff’s Office. These changes reflect the office’s commitment to recognizing hard work and leadership. Jeffery Reed has been promoted to the rank of Sergeant in the Criminal Investigations Division. Reed previously served as a Criminal Investigator, and his dedication, experience, and leadership make him an excellent fit to oversee investigative work and support his tea

The Nolan County Sheriff's Office is proud to announce a new partnership with the Rolling Plains Memorial Hospital to address inmate healthcare needs. On Monday, September 8, 2025, the Nolan County Commissioners Court approved Sheriff James E. Villanueva’s request to enter into a Health Care Service Agreement between the Nolan County Jail and Rolling Plains Memorial Hospital. “One of the most significant responsibilities here at the Nolan County Sheriff's Office is running

On Monday, September 15, 2025, Shay-n-Chell’s Scoops hosted Shakes with the Sheriff, bringing the community together for an afternoon of sweet treats and great conversation. Sheriff James Villanueva, Chief Deputy Brock Carter, and deputies from the Nolan County Sheriff’s Office enjoyed connecting with community members in a relaxed and welcoming environment. The room was filled with laughter, lively conversation, and the aroma of delicious shakes and flavorful coffee. Events