City of Sonora Announces New Chief of Police

SONORA, TX - On September 17, 2024, City of Sonora Mayor Juanita Gomez announced the appointment of Donald (Donnie) Fernandez as the new Chief of Police for the Sonora Police Department, effective immediately. 

Fernandez, who had been serving as Interim Chief since August 1, 2024, replaces former Chief Pete Garcia. 

This appointment follows an almost three-month recruitment process that attracted numerous applicants from across Texas. Fernandez was officially sworn in during the City of Sonora's regular council meeting on September 17, 2024.

Donald Fernandez was born to Donald Fernandez Sr and Diana Hernandez in Del Rio Texas.  Donnie went through the Del Rio School System and graduated from Del Rio High School in June of 2001. 

After graduating high school Donnie enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. and shipped off to basic training located in San Diego, California in August 2001. Upon graduation in November 2001, Donnie was sent to combat training in Camp Pendelton California.  After combat training, he was sent to Fort Leanord Wood Missouri for MOS school. After compilation, Donnie was asked to the FLEET Marine force and stationed in 29 Palms CA to the 3rd Battalion 4th Marines. 

Donnie ended his enlistment and returned to his hometown in August of 2005 and attended Junior College and worked at Laughlin Air Forces Base as a contract guard. In 2007 Donnie was hired by the Del Rio Police Department. While employed Donnie held several positions and titles with the Police Department such as Police Officer, Honor Guard, Detective, Field Training Officer, and Senior Officer. While working as a full-time peace officer for Del Rio, Donnie also enlisted in the Army National Guard for 2 years and received the Army Achievement medal. 

Donnie laterally transferred to the Garland Police Department and was a field training officer, instructor, and a member of the elite SWAT team. Donnie is honored and privileged to now be a part of the Sonora Police Department and is eager to start helping the community of Sonora, Texas.