At 17,203 square miles, Elko County is the 2nd largest county in Nevada and the 4th largest in the United States (not counting the Alaska boroughs) and it is bordered by both Utah and Idaho. The county has an estimated population base of 51,216 which is up from the 48,818 people according to the 2010 census. The county has a large transient population as it is the hub for the gold mines and other natural resources in the area. It also has a large ranching community being home to some of the largest ranches in the state.
The County Sheriff’s Office headed by Sheriff Aitor Narvaiza, consists of a team of committed and talented staff serving the citizens of Elko County with honor, courage and integrity.
The Sheriff’s Office is made up of an elected sheriff, an appointed undersheriff, 2 operation Lieutenants, 1 detention Lieutenant, 4 patrol sergeants, 3 detention sergeants, 1 Detective Sergeant, 3 detectives, 1part time detective, 24 operation deputies and 14 detention deputies, 4 control room technicians, 1 animal control person, and 10 support personnel.
The Sheriff’s Office is the largest Law enforcement agency in Elko County providing law enforcement for the City Of Wells and unincorporated community of Spring Creek, Jackpot, Montello, and Ruby Valley.
In addition, the Sheriff's Office also has regulatory duties and collects gaming, liquor license and County business licenses. The County Commission has designated the Sheriff as the County Emergency Manager as well. The Sheriff is the County Coroner by statute and also has the responsibility for all search and rescue missions within the County.