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Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:
On December 3, 2024, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly celebrated the graduation of 61 new deputies from the Basic Peace Officer Training Course (BPOC). The Class B1-2024 completed an intensive program that began on February 12, 2024, designed to prepare them for the challenges and responsibilities of a career in law enforcement.
The ceremony was filled with pride and camaraderie as Command Staff members congratulated each graduate, welcoming them into the HCSO family. The Class B1-2024 Motto was “No Change Without Challenge.” Click here to view the photo gallery and here to watch the ceremony.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez addressed the graduates, acknowledging their hard work and emphasizing their vital role in building trust and ensuring safety within our community. He encouraged them to uphold the core values of the Sheriff’s Office, reminding them that their careers are a calling to serve and protect with honor.
This graduating class reflects the rich diversity of Harris County, with individuals from various backgrounds and experiences united by their commitment to public service. Their unique perspectives and skills will be invaluable in serving our community.
This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our fantastic academy staff, who have prepared our county’s future guardians. We’re proud of you all!
Top Driver and Top Cadet: Deputy Alexander Johnston
Deputy Johnston received the Top Driver award because he operated the pursuit-driving course without making a single error. He was the fastest cadet to safely maneuver through the four courses.
Deputy Johnston also received the Top Cadet Award for maintaining an 89.3% grade point average during the Academy, a 94% average for his physical fitness, ranked #1 during the 80 hours of BPOC firearms training, and ranked in the top 10 for quiz scores.
Top Gun and Top Physical Fitness Performer: Deputy Keagan Hooks
Deputy Hooks received the Top Gun Award by scoring the highest points during his Top Gun Competition. He also received the Top Physical Fitness Performer. The cadets are encouraged to perform cardiovascular exercises to maintain a healthy lifestyle while performing a stressful job. These exercises are done regularly to improve their overall ability to be physically active and mentally prepared.
Most Improved Cadet: Deputy Bria Legania
The Most Improved Cadet Award was given to the cadet who overcame numerous physical and mental challenges during the BPOC. Deputy Legania overcame challenges by learning tools and coping mechanisms that made her more physically and mentally stronger. This type of resilience will help her in her law enforcement career and her personal life.
Valedictorian: Deputy Diamond Calhoun
The Basic Peace Officer Course class took eleven challenging academic tests. Deputy Calhoun was awarded the Valedictorian award because she maintained a 92.66-grade point average during her tenure at the Academy and received the highest score on the TCOLE test.
As these new deputies embark on their careers, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office is confident in their abilities to impact our community positively. We wish them all the best in their careers. Congratulations to the graduates of Class B1-2024!
Are you inspired to make a difference in Harris County? Join our team! Contact our Recruitment Unit at 713-877-5250 or visit hcsojobs.com to learn more about career opportunities with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
WATCH: Congratulations, Class B1-2024!
30 Years of Holiday Cheer!
This year marks a special milestone for the Harris County Sheriff’s Office as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the HCSO Toy Drive. This heartwarming initiative has brightened the holidays for three decades for countless children at the Children’s Assessment Center (CAC).
The CAC provides vital services to abused children in our community, offering a safe haven during difficult times. Every holiday season, HCSO teammates and volunteers come together to sponsor children of all ages with their own money, fulfilling their wish lists with toys that bring smiles and create lasting memories.
This year, the HCSO team purchased over 1,000 gifts to fulfill the holiday wish lists of more than 500 children. Today, we held a parade to deliver the gifts to the CAC.
“It’s not just about giving toys,” said Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. “It’s about letting these children know that their community sees them, values them, and cares deeply for their well-being. That’s the real magic of this toy drive and the holiday season.”
The continued success of the HCSO Toy Drive is a testament to the generosity and dedication of our teammates, volunteers, and community partners. It truly takes a village to bring joy and hope to these deserving children.
Join us in making this year’s toy drive the best one yet! To donate a toy, visit cachouston.org/spirit-of-winter/; if you want to volunteer your time, visit cachouston.org/ways-to-help/volunteer/. Let’s make the holidays brighter for every child!
Here’s to another 30 years of making a difference in the lives of the children we serve and protect!
HCSO In the News
FOX26: New evidence shows K2-laced papers smuggled into Harris County Jail; 12 players involved in ring
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – In November, FOX 26 reported on the arrest of a defense attorney and two others accused of smuggling drug-laced papers into the Harris County Jail.
New documents in the case reveal that the alleged smuggling ring consists of 12 total players, including six inmates and a “papermaker”.
ABC13: Harris County inmate charged with gun in wheelchair previously convicted of murder
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — The Harris County Jail inmate charged with bringing a loaded weapon inside his wheelchair was convicted of killing two people with a gun decades ago, according to records.
In 1988 and 1990, Tyrone Kennedy shot and killed two people. He was convicted of the crimes and sent to prison but was released and put on parole. However, he was back behind bars after a violation.
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HCSO Teammates of the Week
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the HCSO highlight exceptional teammates who serve others above and beyond their duties. We regularly receive positive emails, thank you notes, and phone calls from the community.
“On November 15, 2024, our next-door neighbor unexpectedly passed away. She lived alone with two dogs. We were impressed and appreciative of how the Sheriff’s Department managed the situation, showing respect and professionalism,” said a Harris County resident. “Officer Manickas kept us informed and ensured the house was secured and the two dogs taken care of with food and water until other arrangements could be made. We are not on social media, but please feel free to share this communication. Thank You!”‘
Deputy Heather Manickas has been with the HCSO for two years and serves in District 1 of North Harris County. She started her law enforcement career in 2013.
“I wanted to take a moment to make sure that I praised Sgt. Ortiz, who assisted with what started to be a nightmare I had with a holding lot that wouldn’t release a vehicle and was being belligerent with both the insurance agency and me. Not only did she take care of it in a timely fashion, the communication was quick, and she already knew both the company and the owner in question,” said a Harris County resident. “A lot of times, people are quick to complain and reluctant to take the time to give thanks and be grateful, so I wanted to take a moment to give Sgt. Ortiz, her flowers for the day! Thank you!”
Sgt. Ortiz is a 20-year veteran of our agency. She began her law enforcement career as a reserve officer with the Hempstead Police Department and, just months later, became a full-time Officer and Detective there. For the past eight years, Sgt. Ortiz has served as a patrol sergeant with our agency.
Be the MVP: Join the Movement!
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez is teaming up with local athletes and community leaders to End the Streak! December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, and we’re raising awareness about the dangers of drunk driving while encouraging everyone to make responsible choices.
Stay tuned for inspiring messages from those who lead on and off the field.
COPS Safer Outcomes Grant
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are excited to announce that HCSO has been granted $341,167 as part of the Department of Justice’s Safer Outcomes program. This funding will be used to enhance our de-escalation and crisis response training.
The COPS Safer Outcomes grant will benefit our Behavioral Health Division and Behavioral Health Training Unit, equipping deputies and officers in neighboring jurisdictions to respond more effectively and compassionately to individuals in crisis.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in securing this grant for their relentless dedication and leadership, which have established HCSO as a national leader in de-escalation training.
Together, we are committed to achieving safer outcomes for everyone.
Celebrating 33 Years of Service: Farewell to Captain Kinnard-Bing!
Captain Marcus Kinnard-Bing, thank you for your incredible leadership and dedication to the residents of Harris County. We wish you all the best in your well-deserved retirement!
Smart911: Be Prepared for Emergencies
Sign up for Smart911 and create a free safety profile that could save precious time in an emergency.
Provide vital information to 911 and first responders, including:
- Household members & medical information
- Pets
- Emergency contacts
- Home access details
Click HERE to sign up today! or text “SMART911” to 67283.
Sign Up for HCSO’s Vacation Watch Program
Heading Out for the Holidays? HCSO Has Your Back!
Enjoy your vacation knowing your home is safe with HCSO’s free Vacation Watch program! Click HERE to sign up now and travel worry-free!