Deputy Jonathan Nunemaker, a dedicated Texas peace officer and U.S. military veteran, now faces intense legal and public scrutiny following a split-second decision made during a volatile arrest situation. Despite a record of professionalism, advanced certification, and a reputation for calm engagement—even in crisis—Deputy Nunemaker’s career has been upended by an incident that underscores the growing risks officers face when acting within the scope of their training.
This case raises serious concerns about the erosion of qualified immunity protections and the second-guessing of officers forced to make rapid decisions under pressure.
During a traffic stop in Medina County, Texas, Deputy Nunemaker encountered a suspect connected to a stolen BMW tied to a robbery. The suspect, identified as Sanchez, was detained, handcuffed, and placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle. While secured, Sanchez became increasingly combative—kicking and striking the interior of the patrol car. This behavior created a dynamic and potentially dangerous situation, both for the suspect and the responding officer. In response, Deputy Nunemaker opened the rear door and deployed a JPX high-propulsion pepper spray system, striking the suspect in the eye. The tool is designed as a less-lethal option to gain compliance and prevent escalation.
Deputy Nunemaker acted in accordance with his training and department protocols, using a force option intended to de-escalate the situation without resorting to more severe measures.
Deputy Nunemaker’s record reflects a commitment to public service and professional excellence:
- U.S. military background emphasizing discipline and accountability
- Achieved Master Peace Officer License in Texas—requiring extensive off-duty training and education
- Served as a Field Training Officer, mentoring new deputies
- Designated Mental Health Deputy for his shift due to his ability to de-escalate and connect with individuals in crisis
His peers and supervisors trusted him with some of the most sensitive and complex calls.
“While a sworn peace officer in Texas, in 5 years I obtained my Master Peace Officer license, which required an incredible amount of off duty education and time. I was a Field Training Officer and the designated Mental Health Deputy for my shift, due to my ability to connect to a wide variety of people, even when they were in crisis. Losing my career has not only affected me in the public eye, it has broken my heart. I truly loved the career for the right reasons and the community I served in Medina County, Texas,” Deputy Nunemaker told National Center for Police Defense when talking about his case.
At the heart of this case is a critical question: Should an officer who follows training and uses a less-lethal tool to control a volatile situation face career-ending consequences?
Deputy Nunemaker’s actions were consistent with established use-of-force principles. Yet, like many officers across the country, he now faces the reality that even good-faith decisions made under pressure can be reinterpreted after the fact.
Despite testimony supporting the reasonableness of his actions, Deputy Nunemaker was found guilty of two counts of aggravated assault, even though his partner testified that the use of force was appropriate under the circumstances and a use-of-force expert affirmed that his actions were objectively reasonable and consistent with training.
Even so, the jury returned a conviction, raising serious concerns about how use-of-force standards are being interpreted in today’s legal environment.
The legal battle is far from over.
National Center for Police Defense, Inc. is actively supporting Deputy Nunemaker and his family as he continues to fight for qualified immunity, particularly as he now faces a civil lawsuit filed by the individual he arrested.
Additionally, his current legal team has identified significant deficiencies in how his case was handled during trial by prior counsel. According to post-conviction review, critical legal arguments were not effectively presented, key aspects of the defense strategy were underdeveloped or omitted, and procedural failures may have compromised the fairness of the trial. These are serious due process violations, forming the basis of a developing legal strategy aimed at overturning his conviction.
The National Center for Police Defense is committed to ensuring that officers like Deputy Nunemaker receive the legal defense and support they deserve. This case represents a defining moment in the ongoing debate over policing, accountability, and the protections afforded to those who serve on the front lines. Support Deputy Nunemaker, and support those who protect us.
To donate to Deputy Jonathan’s case, visit our donation page here: https://nationalcenterforpolicedefense.com/donate/