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Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage
Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez
Fifty men and women walked into the academy as cadets. On March 12, 2025, they walked out as deputies — ready to serve, protect, and make a difference in the lives of Harris County residents every single day.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office celebrated the graduation of Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) Class B1-2025 at Fallbrook Church, surrounded by the people who made it possible: family members who sacrificed alongside them, academy staff who challenged them, and community partners who believe in this mission. The ceremony was hosted by Tess Rowland and brought together everyone who poured into these graduates — because this milestone wasn’t earned alone. Click HERE to view the full photo gallery.
WORDS FROM THE STAGE
A Message of Purpose — and a Challenge
Chief Tommy Diaz addressed the graduates with honesty and heart, honoring not just their hard work, but the people standing behind them.
“There is no doubt that these graduates would not have made it here tonight without each of you. You all have witnessed late nights, you all have witnessed aches, pain, heartaches. But tonight you’re going to witness a badge being handed to the cadets.”
He left the new deputies with a statement that fully captures the standard HCSO holds itself to:
“Every single day you have the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. Embrace it, and cherish it. When chaos erupts, I want you all to be calm. When the storm gathers, I want you all to be the shelter.” — Chief Tommy Diaz
HONORS & RECOGNITION
Outstanding Performers of Class B1-2025
Several graduates distinguished themselves through exceptional performance across academics, fitness, firearms, and driving. HCSO is proud to recognize them:
- 🏆 Top Cadet — Deputy Franky Estrada: Highest overall average across academics, physical fitness, written assignments, defensive tactics, driving, and firearms.
- 🎓 Valedictorian — Cadet Jehaida Williams: Highest academic standing across all eleven examinations during the course.
- 🎯 Top Gun — Deputy Deny Nguyen: Highest score in the firearms competition.
- 🚗 Top Driver — Deputy Jason Navarro: Outstanding performance in the driving portion of training.
- 💪 Top Physical Fitness — Deputy Daniel Ramos: Outstanding results in cardiovascular and strength assessments.
- ⭐ Most Improved — Cadet David Do-Nguyen: Recognized for determination and perseverance in overcoming challenges throughout the course.
A MOMENT OF GRATITUDE
The Families Behind the Badge
Academy training demands everything, and it doesn’t demand it just from the cadets. Behind every graduate stood a family that showed up too: holding dinner, absorbing stress, cheering quietly from the sidelines. HCSO recognizes their sacrifice as part of this achievement.
The ceremony concluded with a closing prayer by Don Savell, offering blessings and encouragement as Harris County’s newest deputies prepare to step into their communities with purpose.
With the completion of BPOC B1-2025, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly welcomes 50 new deputies — each one prepared, each one committed, each one ready to be the shelter when the storm gathers.
Harris County Sheriff’s Office · Class B1-2025
The badge is earned, not given. 💙
WATCH: B1-2025 Graduation Ceremony
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly welcome 50 new deputies to our ranks. Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication to service have led you to this moment — and we couldn’t be prouder.
Welcome to the HCSO family. 💙
WATCH: Meet the Faces Protecting Harris County Next
50 HCSO cadets finally became deputies. 💙
These men and women have worked hard to earn the right to serve Harris County — and today, they graduate ready to protect, serve, and make a difference.
We are proud of every single one of them. Welcome to the HCSO family. 👏
Think you have what it takes? Join us.
📞 713-877-5250
HCSO In the News
KHOU11: Harris County dive team honored during First Responders Day at Rodeo Houston
HOUSTON — First responders from across the region were honored Monday at Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo during the annual First Responders Day, recognizing the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel.
Among the groups recognized was the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team, whose members were spotlighted during the rodeo’s grand entry — a rare public moment for a unit that typically works behind the scenes.
The Harris County Jail was found to be in compliance with state standards during an inspection conducted this week, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, which operates the downtown Houston jail.
It’s the first time in longer than a year that the jail was found to be in compliance with all of Texas’ minimum jail standards.
“The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is committed to operating a jail that reflects our community’s belief that every defendant deserves to feel safe while they await their day in court,” Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said in a statement.
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Teammates of the Week
Harris County Sheriff’s Office Teammate 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.
HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Adrian Mendoza of District 4 Patrol, West Harris County.
A Harris County resident recently shared:
“I was stopped by Deputy Mendoza and was greeted in a very friendly and professional manner. He showed me mercy and only gave me a warning, but it was his attitude that impressed me the most. So many times we hear how bad officers are, but we never hear how good a job they are doing to serve and protect. Deputy Mendoza should be commended.”
Deputy Mendoza joined HCSO in 2019 as a Detention Officer before becoming a deputy in April 2025. In a short time, he has already shown what it means to serve with integrity, professionalism, and heart.
Deputy Mendoza, thank you for representing the best of HCSO — one interaction at a time.
HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy George Robles.
A Harris County resident recently shared:
“I would like to commend Deputy George Robles for his exemplary level of professionalism while handling the burglary of my family’s home. His quick response and patience while speaking with my brother and I about the break in is a testament of the dedication that deputies like him have to the job and their willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty in the communities they serve and protect.”
Deputy Robles has proudly served HCSO for 10 years, beginning his career as a detention officer. He became a deputy in March 2025, where he now serves the community. In just a short time on patrol, Deputy Robles has already made a lasting impression — showing up with professionalism, compassion, and a calm presence when families need it most.
Deputy Robles, thank you for your decade of dedication to Harris County — first protecting those in our care, and now protecting our neighborhoods every day. You represent the very best of what HCSO stands for. We are proud to call you our Teammate of the Week!
Congratulations to our Teammate of the Quarter!
Teammate of the Quarter: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO proudly recognize Detention Officer W. Fernandez-Castillo as Teammate of the Quarter.
While conducting routine security operations, Officer Fernandez-Castillo encountered an inmate who suddenly became aggressive. Demonstrating professionalism and sound judgment, he maintained composure, used defensive techniques to protect himself, and successfully de-escalated the situation without the use of force.
His quick thinking and commitment to safety helped bring the situation under control while prioritizing the well-being of everyone involved.
Congratulations and thank you for representing HCSO with professionalism and dedication.
Spring Break Youth Camp with HCSO
From Monday, March 9, to Thursday, March 12, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office hosted a Spring Break Youth Camp at the Leon Z. Grayson Community Center. We were honored to welcome special visitors from our HCSO Air Operations Team and Drone Unit.
Campers learned how drones are used in law enforcement—from helping locate missing persons to providing aerial support during emergencies.
The students asked great questions, learned about drone safety, and even got an up-close look at the equipment our deputies use in the field.
It’s always inspiring to see young minds excited about technology, aviation, and public safety. Who knows—we may have met a few future pilots or drone operators today.
A special thank you to Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia for supporting the event, Walmart for providing snacks, and Soudagar Organization for providing lunch. Partnerships like these help create opportunities for our youth.
We appreciate the chance to connect with the community and inspire the next generation.
WATCH: Law Enforcement Appreciation Day at Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Law Enforcement Appreciation Day at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo took place on Monday, March 9, 2026, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office was honored to be recognized with several awards.
Our HCSO Dive Team was named First Responder Group of the Year for their recovery efforts following the Kerr County floods at Lake Mystic.
We’re also proud of Deputies Joshua Blair and Louie Ayala, who were recognized for their courage and professionalism for stopping a wrong-way suspected drunk driver.
Thank you to the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo for the recognition. We are proud to serve Harris County every day.
HCSO PAL Deputies Hold Youth Camp
The 2-day-long HCSO Police Athletic/Activity League (PAL) Youth Boxing Camp with Fighter Nation Gym was a success! The youth learned a great deal and had a great time engaging with our HCSO PAL Deputies!
A huge thank you to our amazing sponsors Raising Cane’s, Twin Eagle, Bonfire Wings, La Hacienda Bakery, and the incredible Fighter Nation Gym team for making this camp possible. We are also very grateful for all of our dedicated volunteers who helped make this camp a great experience for the kids!
HCSO Is Always Watching
Every move you make… every speed you take… every texting break…
HCSO’s watching YOU on the roads. 🚔
Drive smart, slow down, and keep your eyes on the road.
Join Our HCSO Family!
Are you ready to serve Harris County? Join us at our Detention Officer Career Fair!
📅 Wednesday, June 3, 2026
⏰ 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
📍 5749 South Loop East, Houston, TX 77033
Show up, apply, and take the exam — all in one day! Walk-in applications accepted starting at 8:00 a.m. Testing begins at 8:30 a.m. Last walk-ins accepted at 1:30 p.m.
This is your opportunity to start a meaningful career protecting and serving the people of Harris County. Don’t wait — spots fill fast!
📞 713-877-5250 | 💻 hcsojobs.com
Missing in Southeast Texas Day
Families searching for missing loved ones are not alone.
Join us for Missing in Southeast Texas Day 2026, a free event dedicated to helping families make connections, share information, and access critical resources in missing persons cases.
Saturday, May 2, 2026
10 AM – 3 PM
Children’s Assessment Center
2500 Bolsover Street, Houston, TX
Attendees can:
- Enter information into NamUs
- Provide DNA samples
- Connect with support organizations
- Report missing family members
Together, we can help bring missing loved ones home.
For more information: Texas Center for the Missing or click here.