Whitney Mayor Janice Sanders announced during a City Council meeting held Thursday, December 19, that Whitney Police Department Sergeant Joshua Scholes has been selected as the city’s next police chief.
The council voted last month to extend an offer to Scholes, who will replace current Chief Kyle Nevil when he begins serving in his elected position as Hill County Precinct 1 constable.
Scholes is an Air Force veteran who served overseas during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He left active-duty service after serving six years and began his law enforcement career in 2011 with the State of Virginia working in a small community near the Chesapeake Bay.
In 2015, Scholes transferred his law enforcement certification and relocated his family to Texas. He began working with the Whitney Police Department in 2016 until 2019, when he took a deputy sheriff position with the Hill County Sheriff’s Office. Scholes returned to the Whitney Police Department as a criminal investigator in early 2023 and was eventually promoted to operations sergeant, the position in which he continues to serve the citizens of Whitney.
Throughout his career, Scholes has served numerous roles in patrol operations and criminal investigations. Scholes holds a Master Peace Officer Certification and is a college graduate from American Military University focusing in interdisciplinary studies.
He currently resides in Hill County with his wife, Katelynn, and three children.
Scholes said he was accepting the position with a deep sense of honor and responsibility. The incoming chief released the following statement:
“As I embark on this journey, I am fully aware of the challenges that our community and law enforcement face. The past years have tested our resolve, and it is clear we must work tirelessly to rebuild and strengthen the trust between our department and the citizens we serve. This is not merely a goal; it is a necessity.
“My vision for the Whitney Police Department is rooted in the principles of transparency, accountability and community engagement. I believe that public safety is a shared responsibility, and I am committed to fostering an environment where every resident feels heard, valued and safe.
“To achieve this vision, we will prioritize community partnerships. I encourage every resident to engage with us—share your thoughts, your concerns and your ideas. Together, we can identify solutions that reflect the unique needs of our community, help bridge any gaps and build lasting relationships.
“I want to assure you that I will lead this department with integrity, courage and compassion. Together, we will navigate the challenges ahead and strive to make the City of Whitney a community where everyone feels secure and respected.
“Thank you once again for this incredible opportunity. I am excited to work alongside each of you as we build a brighter future for Whitney.”
Scholes will be sworn in to begin serving the city as chief at 2 p.m. Tuesday, December 31, at Lake Whitney Public Library.
The Lakelander 