Former Silsbee animal control officer faces new charge in shelter dog deaths

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Joshua Nolen, a former animal control officer in Silsbee, Texas, is facing a new charge of cruelty to non-livestock animals in addition to a previous indictment for improper methods of euthanasia. Nolen is accused of using his personal .22 caliber pistol equipped with a silencer to kill dogs at the Silsbee Animal Control Center, which was discovered by a local rescuer who found several dead dogs near the facility.

Why it matters

This case has raised concerns about the treatment of animals in the Silsbee animal shelter and the potential abuse of power by the former animal control officer. It also highlights the need for proper oversight and training of animal control personnel to ensure the humane and ethical treatment of shelter animals.

The details

Nolen, who was the sole animal control officer for the City of Silsbee, was originally arrested after investigators accused him of using a personal .22 caliber pistol equipped with a silencer to kill dogs at the Silsbee Animal Control Center. The case began after a local rescuer, Michelle Ladner, discovered several dead dogs near the facility while walking stray dogs in the area.

• On March 9, 2026, the initial video report on this case first aired.
• On April 1, 2026, Nolen was booked at the Hardin County Jail on the new charge of cruelty to non-livestock animals, a Class A misdemeanor.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Nolen's bond on the new charge of cruelty to non-livestock animals has been set at $5,000, and he will face a judge to determine if he will be allowed to post bail.