Recognizing the Retirement of Chief Deputy Jon Martinez

Please join us in recognizing Chief Deputy Jon Martinez on his retirement from the Lea County Sheriff’s Office following 29 years of dedicated service to Lea County.

Chief Deputy Martinez began his career with Lea County on August 11, 1997, when he was hired as a Deputy with the Sheriff’s Office. Throughout his career, he took on increasing levels of responsibility and leadership, serving in numerous assignments and specialized roles.

During his time as a Deputy, Chief Deputy Martinez served as a Patrol Deputy and Narcotics Agent with the Lea County Drug Task Force. His specialized assignments included serving as a Field Training Officer, Criminal Interdiction Officer, DWI Enforcement Officer, SWAT Tactical Operator, and Instructor.

He was promoted to Sergeant in 2005, serving as a Patrol Supervisor and SWAT Assistant Team Leader, as well as a Chemical Munitions and Impact Munitions Instructor.

Chief Deputy Martinez continued to advance through the ranks of the Sheriff’s Office, serving in leadership roles overseeing the Courts Division and the Lea County Drug Task Force. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2011, Captain in 2012, and assumed the position of Chief Deputy in 2013.

As Chief Deputy, Martinez served as Division Commander for Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Courts, and Records. His specialized responsibilities also included serving as Internal Affairs Supervisor, Policy Development and Compliance Manager, Law Enforcement Accreditation Program Manager, Accreditation Assessment Team Leader, and supervisor of the Sheriff’s Office Drone and Canine Programs.

Chief Deputy Martinez officially retired from the Lea County Sheriff’s Office on July 25, 2026, concluding a career that spanned three decades of service to Lea County and its residents.

Throughout those years, he served not only as a law enforcement officer, but also as a supervisor, instructor, mentor, and leader whose work and dedication contributed to the operations, programs, and continued professionalism of the Lea County Sheriff’s Office.

As we recognize Chief Deputy Martinez following his retirement, Lea County extends its sincere appreciation for his 29 years of dedicated public service and the lasting contributions he made to the Lea County Sheriff’s Office and our community.

Although Jon has already begun his well-earned retirement, we did not want to miss the opportunity to recognize his remarkable career and thank him for the many years he devoted to serving Lea County.

Please join us in thanking Chief Deputy Jon Martinez for his service and wishing him continued happiness and all the best in retirement!