After sheriff steps down, undersheriff takes over in Broadwater County

Broadwater County has a new sheriff after its former sheriff stepped down on March 23.

In accordance with state statute, former Undersheriff Mark Wood has taken over as the county’s top cop and former Sheriff Nick Rauser will stay on as the department’s chief deputy.

“Nick has dedicated 18 years to law enforcement and will continue serving Broadwater County in a different capacity within our office,” Wood said in a statement. “The role of sheriff carries unique demands and responsibilities, and it is not a position suited for everyone. Nick has chosen to focus his efforts where he can make the most direct and meaningful impact, and we fully support that decision.”

Unfounded rumors began circulating online after the statement was posted on the office’s Facebook page. Wood addressed the rumor mill in a Tuesday interview, saying, “The job is just not for everybody. There’s really nothing nefarious going on here.”

Earlier this month, Wood filed to run for sheriff. He will continue the interim job until November, when he hopes to be elected. Rauser did not file for reelection.

Wood will be formally appointed as interim sheriff during a Broadwater County Commission meeting on April 1.

“Nick remains a committed and respected professional, and the citizens of Broadwater County will continue to benefit from his experience, work ethic, and dedication,” Wood said. “All of us at the Sheriff’s Office stand behind Nick and appreciate his continued service to our community.”

As a result of the personnel shift, Jamie Buck is now the county’s undersheriff, and Tony Cordova will serve as the captain of the department.

“Together, this leadership team will set a standard of professionalism, accountability, and visible service to the citizens we are sworn to protect,” Wood said. “We are moving forward with purpose, focus, and a commitment to doing the job right.”

The administration changes at the office come on the heels of a public safety mill levy in May 2025 that did not pass. The failure of the levy led to cuts throughout the office.

According to an open letter penned by Sheriff Rauser after the failed vote, the department had to transition its only school resource officer back to patrol, the county’s south-end deputy position was cut, a retired position went unfilled, the full-time detective had to pick up patrol shifts, and deputies had to fill in at the detention center, where staffing demands remained high.

Looking forward, Wood is hopeful about the department’s staffing situation in light of the failed levy. He said the County Commission secured funding to add back two full-time deputies, on which will be stationed on the south end of the county.