Sheriff's Office Sergeant Nick Jones Appointed As New North Plains Police Chief

Effective Monday, January 22, 2024, the North Plains City Council welcomes Sergeant Nick Jones as the City's new Police Chief in partnership with the Washington County Sheriff's Office (WCSO). Chief James Haxton, who successfully served the community for nearly three years, will step down from his role as he transitions to manage the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Negotiations Team.

Sergeant Jones brings over a decade of dedicated service to WCSO and has proven himself as an exceptional leader. Serving as the Team Leader and Supervisor for the Crisis Negotiation Unit (CNU), Jones has demonstrated his ability to handle critical situations with expertise. He was part of the original WCSO team that started providing law enforcement services to North Plains in 2019 and has also played a crucial role in managing deputies in Gaston and Banks, working closely with municipal partners to maintain safe and secure communities and foster strong relationships.

"We appreciate Chief Haxton's unwavering dedication to the North Plains community over the past three years," said North Plains Mayor Teri Lenahan. "His leadership has fortified our commitment to small-town community policing values. We also welcome Sergeant Jones as our next Police Chief and have trust in his ability to uphold the highest standards of public safety. We look forward to the continuity of our strong partnership with the sheriff's office for even greater community impact."

Sergeant Jones expressed his enthusiasm for taking on this new responsibility. "I am honored to serve as the Chief of Police for the City of North Plains," said Sergeant Jones. "I first worked in North Plains in 2019 and am excited to once again work alongside the dedicated deputies and serve our community with the utmost professionalism and integrity.  Together, we will uphold a strong commitment to community policing and enhance the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods."

Reflecting on the transition, outgoing Sergeant James Haxton shared his confidence in Sergeant Jones' capabilities. "I have no doubt that Sergeant Jones is the ideal individual to lead the North Plains Police Department. His dedication, experience, and passion for public safety make him exceptionally suited for this role. I am confident that under his leadership, the department will continue to thrive and provide the highest level of service to our community."

In July of 2019, the City of North Plains began contracting with WCSO to provide police services. The North Plains Police Department serves more than 3,660 residents with three designated full-time employees. The police chief reports directly to the North Plains City Manager and leads the work of the Police Department with support from and in partnership with the WCSO.