(PHOTOS BY BRENNA WHITE / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
RETIREMENT … Officer’s Snivley’s table of memorabilia.
JOB WELL-DONE … Chief of Pioneer Police Department Tim Livengood and SRO Officer Jim Snivley share a photo in celebration of Snivley’s surprise retirement party.
By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
After an astounding 49-year career in law enforcement, Sergeant Jim Snivley is preparing to close out a legacy of service, leadership, and community impact.
The Pioneer Police Department hosted a retirement open house in his honor on June 13th, 2025, celebrating a career that has spanned nearly five decades across Bryan, Pioneer, and greater Williams County.
Sgt. Snivley began his journey in 1978 with the City of Bryan Police Department. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, later serving eight years as Chief Deputy at the Williams County Sheriff’s Office.
With his impressive background, he’s held numerous titles, but the title perhaps that defines him best is simply “mentor.”
In 2020, he took on his most recent role as School Resource Officer (SRO) for the North Central Local Schools under the Pioneer PD, where he has served for the past five years. His last official came with the close of the school year.
In the halls of North Central Schools, Snivley wasn’t just a uniformed presence; he was someone students trusted. Known for his calm demeanor and steady guidance, he offered more than just safety.
He offered listening ears, kind words, and a quiet example of what it means to serve with heart. His return to policing in 2020, after a short-lived retirement, speaks volumes about his enduring sense of duty. As he once told Chief Tim Livengood of Pioneer PD, “I still have more in the tank, Chief.”
Snivley’s journey wasn’t just professional, but deeply personal. His bond with his K9 partner, Max, during his years at Bryan PD is when he found one his most meaningful partnerships.
He recounts how at the time of his service that no K9 units were available in a five-county radius, and he himself volunteered for the program.
The very first find with Max included a trip to a pharmacy break-in – where officers previously had thought the building was clear.
When Officer Snivley entered with his K9 companion, he immediately spotted a hidden enforcer from a motorcycle gang; complete with a murder warrant from Chicago! “The K9 program is a lot of fun, but I really enjoyed connecting with the kids,” he adds.
When asked what his future plans include, the officer responds, “I want to learn how to relax. Go fishing more!”
As Sgt. Snivley completed his final school year, leaving behind a job well done, somewhere in the memories of those closest to him is the image of a man and his dog, standing shoulder to shoulder, watching over a community they both loved to protect.