On February 27,2026, serious and deeply disturbing actions were uncovered involving the Silsbee Animal Control Officer, Josh Nolen. Josh Nolen has since been arrested for acts of animal cruelty/ neglect including the inhumane killing and improper disposal of the animals. Josh Nolen has admitted to Silsbee Police Department, Silsbee, Texas of point blank shooting dogs/cats in the head with his personal .22 with suppressor and killed the animal; leaving the animals in the woods, local creek and even thrown in the local garbage service. Mr. Nolen has since stated that he was not provided proper resources, including human euthanasia supplies, to perfom his duties lawfully and ethically.
We, the undersigned citizens of Silsbee, Texas, respectfully demand the immediate resignation of Roger Martin, Director of Public Works and overseeing authority of the Silsbee Animal Control Center. Roger Martin had a responsibility to maintain acountability of Josh Nolen to provide proper procedures, training, and resources. There was a failure in leadership and oversight. This failure contributed to actions that have shocked our community and caused unnecessary suffering. We, the citizens of Silsbee, no longer have confidence in Roger Martin's ability to serve in a position of public trust. We demand, immediate resignation of Roger Martin. We, demand full investigation at the Silsbee Animal Control Center. We demand implementaion of proper policies, training, and human practices moving forward. Our community deserves transparency, accountability, and human treatment of animals . We will not tolerate neglect,abuse, or failure of leadership within our local government any longer with City of Silsbee.
