Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage
Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage
Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez
Summer means road trips, late nights, and busy parking lots — and unfortunately, it also means more opportunities for auto theft. That’s why every July, we mark Watch Your Car Month, a reminder that protecting your vehicle doesn’t have to be complicated, and you don’t have to do it alone.
We know a stolen car isn’t just an inconvenience. It can mean missed work, disrupted routines, and the unsettling feeling of having something taken from your own driveway. Our goal this month — and every month — is to make sure you have the tools and support to prevent that from happening to you.
Here’s how we can help:
- 📍 Free Catalytic Converter Etching: Bring your vehicle by every Wednesday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., at 310 Fisher Rd., Humble, TX 77338. Our Auto Theft Unit will etch and paint your VIN directly onto your catalytic converter at no cost. No appointment needed — just first come, first served. This simple step makes stolen converters easier to trace and return to their rightful owners.
Simple habits that make a real difference:
- Take your keys with you — every time, even “just for a minute.”
- Roll up windows and lock doors, even in your own driveway.
- Park in well-lit areas or near security cameras when you can.
- Keep valuables out of sight — and never leave firearms in your vehicle.
- Consider an audible alarm or anti-theft/tracking device.
- Keep your vehicle’s year, make, model, color, license plate, and VIN saved somewhere easy to access. If your car is ever stolen, this information helps us move faster on your behalf.
How we’re protecting you:
Prevention works, and the numbers prove it. In 2025, our community saw 27.66% fewer reported motor vehicle thefts and 23.05% fewer vehicle burglaries compared to the year before. That means thousands more residents drove off to work, school, and home without ever having to experience the stress of a stolen vehicle.
We’re only weeks into July, so it’s too early to say exactly where 2026 will land — but we’re committed to keeping our community safer, one patrol, one etching event, and one informed resident at a time.
If you see something suspicious, say something. Call 713-221-6000 or 9-1-1. We’re in this together.
HCSO In the News
HCSO celebrates its newest detention officers
HCSO congratulated its newest class of detention officers on completing their rigorous training. If you or someone you know is looking for a meaningful career in public service, HCSO is hiring — learn more at HCSOJobs.com.
Arrest made in Humble-area repairman’s death
When a local repairman didn’t come home from a service call, his family raised the alarm. Deputies moved quickly, identifying and arresting the man responsible within a day — bringing the family some measure of closure.
Two arrested after box truck chase ends near Westchase Walmart
When a driver refused to stop for a routine traffic stop in northwest Harris County, deputies stayed with the box truck along the Katy Freeway until it came to a stop. Two suspects were taken into custody on the spot.
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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.
A Harris County resident recently shared:
💬 “A few weeks ago, I found my wife unresponsive and called 911. Deputy Augustine Arellano was first on scene. My wife passed despite the efforts of first responders and EMTs. Deputy Arellano stayed until my wife’s body was removed. During that time, he was a tremendous help in contacting the medical examiner and the cremation society for me. He was extremely compassionate, and it helped me at such a devastating time. He is a credit to your organization.”
Deputy Arellano has been with HCSO since August 2023 and began his law enforcement career in January 2015. He currently serves in District 1 Patrol in north Harris County as a Contract Deputy for Klein PUD.
👏 Thank you, Deputy Arellano, for showing up with compassion during one of the hardest moments a family can face. Your kindness made a lasting difference.
A Harris County resident recently shared:
💬 “I was pulled over for an infraction and actually had a really solid experience. I believe it was Deputy Pineda. Anyway, he was extremely nice and kept things quick and professional, and I would honestly say it was the most comfortable and pleasant experience I’ve had with any officer before and has really brought my spirits with law enforcement up a lot, seeing good ones firsthand, and I am definitely glad there’s someone like him serving our community.”
Deputy Pineda has served with HCSO since December 2021, starting as a Detention Officer before moving to Central Records and later attending the HCSO Academy to become a certified peace officer. He now serves as a Patrol Deputy in District 6, north Harris County.
👏 Thank you, Deputy Pineda, for representing HCSO with professionalism and kindness — even during a routine stop. Moments like this are exactly why our community trusts us.
Welcome to the Family: 36 New Detention Officers Graduate
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO congratulated 36 new Detention Officers on their graduation, welcoming the newest members of the team. If you know someone who’d be a great fit, HCSO is hiring — call 713-877-5250 or visit HCSOJobs.com.
Aprons, Not Badges: Deputies Serve Up Support for Special Olympics
Deputies traded their uniforms for aprons at Texas Roadhouse in Humble for Tip-A-Cop, raising funds for Special Olympics Texas. Every tip and donation helps provide year-round sports training, competition, and life-changing opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Thanks to Texas Roadhouse and the Law Enforcement Torch Run for making the night a success.
Building Bridges: Citizens’ Police Academy Class #66 Graduates
On July 13, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO congratulated the graduates of Citizens’ Police Academy Class #66, recognizing their commitment to learning about law enforcement and strengthening community partnerships. Thanks to HCSO Command Staff, the CPA Alumni Association, HCSO Chaplains, Starbucks, Panadería Tierra Caliente, and BakerRipley Pasadena for their support.
See HCSO From the Inside: One-Day Citizens’ Police Academy
Registration is open for HCSO’s free One-Day Citizens’ Police Academy, Saturday, August 22, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. at the Tracey Gee Community Center.
Participants get a behind-the-scenes look at the Crime Scene Unit, Behavioral Health, Jail Operations, Traffic, and Shoot or Don’t Shoot training.
Space is limited to 30 participants — apply by August 15.
Employee of the Quarter: Fast Thinking Saves a Life
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO recognized Detention Officer Lisa Francis as Employee of the Quarter. During a critical medical emergency, Officer Francis acted fast — activating her body-worn camera, assessing the inmate, and coordinating closely with medical staff to ensure the quickest possible care.
Free Self-Defense Training for Women — Registration Open
HCSO is accepting registrations for a free 4-day Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Women’s Self-Defense Class, August 12, 13, 19 & 20, 5–8 p.m. at the Tracey Gee Community Center (3599 Westcenter Dr., Houston, TX 77042).
Open to women ages 18–60; limited to 30 registrants; all four sessions required to receive a certificate. Taught by certified HCSO instructors.
Questions: communityengagementdiv@sheriff.hctx.net