Oneida County Sheriff-elect Jared Pearl announces Retired State Police Sergeant Scott A. Nell will serve as next Undersheriff

(Oneida County, NY) Oneida County Sheriff-elect Jared Pearl is proud to announce the impending appointment of Scott A. Nell to the position of Oneida County Undersheriff upon taking office on January 1, 2027. The selection marks the first of several key appointments as Sheriff-elect Pearl builds out his leadership team after last week’s election.

“Scott Nell has selflessly served Upstate New Yorkers with distinction for over three decades. His unwavering commitment to the people of Oneida County in law enforcement, emergency services and community work makes him the best choice to serve as our next Undersheriff. We’re hitting the ground running on Day One with new, experienced leadership to keep our residents safe from dangerous crime,” said Jared Pearl.

Scott A. Nell served 32 years with the New York State Police, retiring in 2020 after a distinguished career in Troops D and T. Rising through the ranks from Trooper to Sergeant, Station Commander, and Zone Sergeant, Nell served on specialized units including the Mobile Response Team, Sniper Team, and Mobile Field Unit.

Throughout his career, Nell received numerous awards for bravery and leadership, including the prestigious New York State Police Brummer Award for a heroic rescue at Chittenango Falls. He was recognized three times as a Troop Uniform Supervisor of the Year and received additional honors for his actions during a dangerous armed carjacking incident in Madison County.

Beyond law enforcement, Nell has been an active member of the Vernon Volunteer Fire Company for 41 years, serving as Chief since 1996 and remains active in emergency services. He also served nearly 30 years in the United States Army Reserve, retiring as a Sergeant First Class in 2016. A lifelong Vernon resident, Nell lives with his wife, Cynthia, and has two sons and three grandchildren.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve under the leadership of Sheriff-elect Jared Pearl and continue the fight to make our communities safer. I look forward to working alongside the dedicated men and women of the Sheriff’s Office, and all that we’ll accomplish together for Oneida County families,” said Scott Nell.

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