SIDNEY, Neb. — The Sidney Police Department has appointed Jose Ruiz as lieutenant and operations commander, bringing more than 20 years of law enforcement experience to the department.

Ruiz joins Sidney from the City of Kimball, where he most recently served as chief of police. Department officials said Ruiz has formally accepted the position and is completing final onboarding requirements, with full duty status expected by early next month.

According to the department, Ruiz’s career has focused on professional standards, officer development and training. He has served for decades as a field training officer and has worked statewide as an instructor at the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island, helping train patrol officers in procedures and best practices.

Ruiz brings experience in peer support program development, inter-agency collaboration and proactive policing strategies. Police officials said his background includes leading multi-agency trainings, establishing interlocal agreements and emphasizing community outreach alongside crime deterrence.

The move from a chief executive role in Kimball to an operations commander position in Sidney was described as a strategic decision to strengthen the department’s internal leadership structure. Chief Sam Lovato said Ruiz’s experience running an agency will enhance operational continuity, mentorship and long-term planning.

Lovato said placing a former police chief into a lieutenant role reflects a focus on succession planning and stability, ensuring consistent leadership and alignment between daily operations and broader departmental goals.

The Sidney Police Department said it remains committed to transparency and professional excellence and expects Ruiz’s experience in training and regional cooperation to benefit both officers and the community.