In Memory of Detention Officer Anthony Nicoletti

The state of Arizona has faced many tragedies during the COVID19 pandemic. On Monday, October 11, 2021, the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office addressed residents to inform them of a loss within their ranks due to the dangerous virus. Detention Officer Tony Nicoletti, badge number 722, died due to complications of the virus. Nicoletti was 60 years old.

At the start of the pandemic, we learned that many careers carried additional risks. First responders, front-line workers, law enforcement, and corrections employees are all occupations that do not allow for social distancing. Corrections officers all around the country have died from the virus. Jails, prisons, and other institutions were never designed to handle any pandemic outbreak.

For the last six years, Detention Officer Nicoletti has served his community as a law enforcement officer with the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office. However, he did work as a corrections officer with the department. Before working with the MCSO, Nicoletti served with the Arizona Department of Corrections for about five years. His most recent assignment had him working at the Mohave County Jail in Kingman.

Nicoletti’s duties at the jail were as a fugitive and warrants officer. In addition, he assisted with out-of-state extraditions, in-state prisoner movement, and ensuring inmates had transportation to various courthouses in the county. Detention Officer Nicoletti is the eighth officer in the department’s history to have died in the line of duty, along with one K9 officer.

Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, Arizona

The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office is quite expansive and serves a population of more than 165,000 residents. The sheriff’s department has more than simply patrol duties and law enforcement. These agencies handle investigations, back up other agencies, handle court civil service, and provide security for the county courthouse.

Nicoletti had a variety of duties at the Mohave County Jail. The department has the responsibility to operate the jail and manage its security. In Nicoletti’s case, his position was to see transportation services for the inmates. Getting the inmates to their day in court is an essential responsibility for all departments. MCSO has about 94 officers full-time.

Remembrances

Detention Officer Anthony Nicoletti leaves behind his wife and three children. Many volunteers will help the Nicoletti family with arrangements, including the department’s Honor Guard. Honor Guards are officers who volunteer to be there for the fallen in their department and others to help residents in communities demonstrate their respect and gratitude for the lost through ceremonies.

The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office posted the announcement on Facebook for residents. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of our own, Detention Officer Anthony “Tony” Nicoletti. Unfortunately, officer Nicoletti passed away early this morning of complications related to contracting COVID-19. Tony was a long-time Kingman resident who was loved and respected by all who knew him and worked with him. We ask that the community keep his wife, children, and the entire family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. To the Nicoletti family, please know that you will always be a part of our law enforcement family.”

Debbie Reynolds, a friend, and a resident, was saddened by the news. “I am so saddened by the loss of this great man and an outstanding officer. My heart and prayers go out to his family. I have been blessed to know and work with such an amazing man at ASPC – Cerbat. Nicoletti, you will be missed by so many. Thank you for your outstanding service. RIP brother, we will surely miss you.”

Bob Boyd, who was a long-time friend of Nicoletti, shared in the grief. “I’ve known Tony for 40 years. Tony was always the best of the best. RIP Brother! God speed! Knowing you, the gates are wide open. Our condolences, Chris, to you and yours.”