Widner to Retire as Jasper County Jail Administrator; Pomponio to Be Promoted

JASPER COUNTY, Texas — Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard announced this week that Jail Administrator Kenny Widner will retire effective January 31, 2026, concluding more than four decades in law enforcement service.

Widner, a 40-plus-year law enforcement veteran, has served as Jasper County Jail Administrator since January 2025. Sheriff Havard credited Widner with leading significant improvements at the county jail during his tenure.

“When I took office, the selection of Kenny Widner as the jail administrator was one of the easiest decisions I made,” Havard said. “Under his leadership, Kenny has transformed our jail into a modern-day facility that focuses on safety and reducing recidivism rates.”

Havard noted that Widner stepped into the role during a challenging period, choosing what he described as “the hard path” rather than remaining in a lower-stress position elsewhere.

“He stepped up and committed himself to doing the best job that he could when he could have chosen an easier path,” Havard said. “Instead, he made a very profound impact on our jail and our entire office. I couldn’t be more proud of Kenny and all of his accomplishments.”

Sheriff Havard added that Widner’s service came with personal sacrifice and expressed gratitude on behalf of Jasper County residents.

“The citizens of Jasper County owe him a great deal of gratitude for the sacrifices he and his family have made,” Havard said.

Following Widner’s retirement, Joe Pomponio will be promoted to Jail Administrator, effective February 1, 2026.

Pomponio currently serves as Jail Captain and brings 29½ years of law enforcement experience to the position. Sheriff Havard described Pomponio as a dependable leader with a strong work ethic and a forward-thinking approach.

“Joe is one of the hardest workers at our office and is the first one to step up and accept additional responsibility,” Havard said. “No matter the task he is assigned, he always gets the job done.”

Havard acknowledged the demands of the role but expressed confidence in Pomponio’s ability to lead the facility.

“His new role will be extremely stressful and demanding, but he is going to do a great job,” Havard said. “The citizens of our county expect this jail to be clean, safe, and efficient. My expectations of our facility are extremely high, and I know Joe will meet and exceed every one of them.”

Sheriff Havard also thanked jail staff and Sheriff’s Office employees for their professionalism and flexibility during the upcoming transition.

“It’s an honor and privilege to lead the men and women at this Sheriff’s Office,” Havard said.