HCMUD 150 – Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 150

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Happy Thanksgiving!

November 22, 2023 by HCMUD 150

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

As we get ready to express gratitude to our loved ones on Thanksgiving, I want to share my deep appreciation for your partnership and contributions to our wonderful community. I deeply appreciate the strength, compassion, and commitment of our community to support each other.

Thanksgiving is a memorable occasion that prompts us to take a moment and appreciate our blessings and the things that matter most in our lives.

As a holiday with significant meaning for our country, it encourages us to express our gratitude to our family, loved ones, and brothers and sisters in blue.

Thank you to those who work on Thanksgiving to keep our communities safe, sacrificing time with their families to ensure everyone can celebrate safely with theirs.

Let’s express gratitude for our supportive community and cherish each day. We wish you and your loved ones a safe and joyful Thanksgiving holiday!

Protect Yourself – Don’t Let Theft Ruin The Holiday Season

As we embrace the joy of the holiday season, we must stay vigilant and safeguard against potential theft and security risks. Have a solid plan to shop safely while searching for the perfect holiday gifts.

Don’t let the season of giving become the season of taking. Here are some online and in-person shopping safety and theft prevention tips:

Online Shopping:

Stick to retailers that you know and have shopped with before.
Do some research on retailers that you’re not familiar with or haven’t shopped with before.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi when making online purchases.
Keep your receipts and monitor your bank account and credit activity.

In-Person Shopping:

When looking for a parking space, be patient and alert for pedestrians.
Park in well-lit, high-traffic areas.
Don’t leave valuable items in your vehicle, especially in plain view.
Lock your car doors, even if you’re stepping away for a moment.
Avoid putting your personal belongings in the shopping cart.
If you’re shopping with children, identify the store personnel so they know who to ask for help.
Don’t argue over store items; it can be dangerous and escalate to an assault.

Safety Tips to Ensure a Secure and Peaceful Holiday:

Always lock your doors and windows, whether at home or away.
Adequate outdoor lighting is a deterrent to burglars.
If you’re expecting deliveries, track packages and arrange for them to be delivered when someone is home.
Avoid advertising your travel plans on social media. Wait until you return to share your holiday experiences. Broadcasting your absence can make your home a target.
If you have a home security system, renew your alarm permit annually. For more information, call 713-755–4600.
Update and share emergency contact information with trusted neighbors.
If you’re traveling for the holidays, we’ve got you covered! Our Vacation Watch Program offers added security when you’re away from home. Learn more about the service and sign up by clicking here.
If you see something unusual or suspicious in your neighborhood, report it to the Sheriff’s Office at 713-221-6000 or 911 if it’s an emergency.

Let’s work together to ensure that the joy of the holidays is not overshadowed by theft or security concerns. The Sheriff’s Office wishes you a safe and joyful holiday season!

The Wellness Corner: Coping with the Holiday Blues

The holiday season can bring joy, but it can also be challenging for some. If you or someone you know is experiencing the holiday blues, consider these tips for self-care and support:

Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay not to feel festive. Acknowledge and accept your emotions.
Set Realistic Expectations: It’s okay to scale back on festivities and focus on what feels manageable.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments that may add stress.
Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness or relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation.
Plan Self-Care Activities: Schedule time for activities you enjoy.
Reach Out for Support: Contact the Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD at 713-970-7000.

Remember, the holiday blues are temporary, and it’s essential to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with more severe symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. You don’t have to navigate these feelings alone.

WATCH: HCSO Motorist Assistance Program (M.A.P.)

In recognition of Crash Responder Safety Week (CRSW), Nov. 13-17, 2023, all Motorist Assistance Program (MAP) partners came together to raise safety awareness for traffic incident management workers who respond to vehicle crashes and all commuters using our roadways. Click here to watch the press conference.

Always move over or slow down when approaching emergency responders, tows, or maintenance vehicles. Call 713-CALL-MAP if you ever need emergency roadside assistance. For more information, visit click here.

WATCH: HCSO Highlights Our Motor Assistance Program (M.A.P.) To Enhance Roadway Safety

WATCH: National Seat Belt Day, November 14, 2023

In recognition of National Seat Belt Day, let’s unite in the commitment to prioritize safety on our roads. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Ed Gonzalez partnered with Kailee Mills Foundation to raise awareness about seat belt use. To learn about Kailee Mills Foundation, visit kaileemillsfoundation.org.

HCSO In The News

ABC 13: Numerous attorneys believed to be smuggling drugs into jail, Harris Co. Sheriff’s Office says

The arrest of a 77-year-old attorney may be the first of many in the case of drugs being smuggled into the Harris County Jail. Defense attorney Ronald Lewis is charged with two counts of having a prohibited substance in a correctional facility. He was arrested on Friday during a visit to the jail and found to be in possession of 11 sheets of paper believed to be soaked in drugs, according to Lt. J. Wheeler with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations and Security Division. Wheeler said those papers will be tested to confirm.

KHOU: More than 500 weapons collected at City of Houston’s 5th gun buyback event

More than 500 guns were collected at the City of Houston’s fifth gun buyback event that was held Saturday on Harwin. HCSO Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said it’s an opportunity for law enforcement to serve the community in a different way.

“On a number of occasions, we’ve heard from individuals that said, ‘My loved one passed away. They had weapons. I do not want them in the house and I did not have a safe way of disposing of them,'” the sheriff said. “This provides that option. We want to make sure we’re preventing those instances where maybe someone is perhaps breaking into a home and someone comes across those weapons and now it lands on the wrong hands.”

Houston Public Media: Houston, Harris County address concerns of violent crimes against AAPI community

Tony Nguyen is the Assistant Chief of Harris County’s Sheriff’s Office. He said the Community Problem Oriented Policing Unit, which was a program that started in 2021, is one of the many strategies the county is using to address the public safety concerns of residents.

“We have C-Pop deputies in each patrol district who spend their time getting to know their businesses, schools, houses of worship and neighborhoods in the area,” Chief Nguyen said.

Thanks to the Asian American Peace Officers’ Association for Your Valuable Support!

In the spirit of unity and gratitude, the Asian American Peace Officers’ Association has again demonstrated its commitment to supporting the law enforcement community by donating Thanksgiving dinners to our dedicated detention officers.

This thoughtful donation recognizes our teammates’ hard work and dedication and brings a sense of warmth and appreciation during the holiday season. Thank you!

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez Announced a Significant Arrest in a Jail Narcotics Investigation

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez announced a major arrest in a jail narcotics investigation. Earlier this year, the Sheriff established the jail-based Criminal Investigations and Security Division in response to a substantial increase in drug overdoses in the jail.

Following a lengthy investigation, the Division managed to arrest a defense attorney suspected of being a major supplier of dangerous narcotics into the jail.

Congratulations to the HCSO Explorers!

Team from District’s youth law enforcement program wins top Texas prize.

In the Explorers program, Harris County sheriff’s deputies coach volunteers ages 14 to 21 on how to be law enforcement officers — funded by East Aldine District.

Four Explorers are learning what it’s like to be tops in Texas. Their team won “best overall” at a Nov 11 statewide competition in Corpus Christi against 45 other teams from around the state. To find out about becoming an Explorer, contact Sgt. Garza Terry.Garza@sheriff.hctx.net.

Thanks for Joining the HCSO Open House and Hiring Expo

Thank you so much to everyone who joined the HCSO Open House and Hiring Expo! For those of you looking for a job, we are hiring! If you want to make a difference, call 713-877-5250 or visit HCSOJobs.com.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Offices Attended the Breakfast of Champions

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office enjoyed attending the 5th Annual Breakfast of Champions hosted by Katy Christian Ministries. This event provided valuable opportunities to connect with residents, share helpful information, and foster positive relationships. We thank the host for inviting us and for all they do for our community!

Thank You for Participating in the Gun Buyback Event

Thanks to everyone who joined us at the Office of Commissioner Lesley Briones, Precinct 4, gun back event. By turning in their firearms, residents contributed to making our community safer.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Honoring Our Heroes

November 10, 2023 by HCMUD 150

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office humbly pays tribute to those who have served our country and the many veterans in our agency who continue serving their community as public servants. This week and all year, we celebrate these American heroes who have fought and sacrificed for our liberty and freedom.

HCSO supports our team members who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and then answered the call to protect their local communities. Seeing our military veterans work tirelessly every shift puts living a life of service into perspective. Their stories and experiences inspire us. We are moved by their resiliency and servant leadership.

At the Sheriff’s Office, veterans are represented in various roles, sworn and civilian, and at all levels of the agency. We benefit significantly from their wealth of training, experience, and commitment to teamwork and serving others.

We empower our veterans and foster an inclusive culture for them. Our Office of Military Relations provides a wide range of support to our team members who are current military service members and veterans, as well as those in our larger community who served their country.

This Veterans Day weekend, and all year long, we celebrate our country’s true heroes who have fought and sacrificed for our liberty and freedom. We owe them an enduring debt of gratitude.

If you want to make a difference, learn more about our career opportunities by visiting our website, HCSOJobs.com. We’re grateful for the veterans in our ranks and their countless contributions to the Sheriff’s Office.

HCSO Open House and Hiring Expo

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is excited to announce its upcoming Academy Open House and Hiring Expo, set for Saturday, November 11, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event will be held at the HCSO Academy at 2316 Atascocita Road, Humble, TX 77396.

The HCSO Academy Open House and Hiring Expo is an opportunity for individuals interested in pursuing a rewarding career in law enforcement to discover the exciting world of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. If you know someone that is looking for a career, please let them know about the upcoming hiring expo. This event is designed to provide an in-depth look at the many career paths available within the HCSO, showcasing the extensive training programs and the numerous benefits of joining our dedicated team.

Highlights of the event include:

Academy Tour: Step inside the HCSO Training Academy and explore the facilities where our teammates receive world-class training.
Incentives and New Higher Salary, Benefits: Learn about our competitive compensation packages and comprehensive benefits.
“A Day in the Life of a Detention Officer”: Gain insight into detention officers’ daily responsibilities and challenges.
Spotlight on the Detention Command Containment Team: Discover the specialized skills and training used by our Containment Team to maintain safety and order in the jail.
Armed Detention Officer Experience: Learn about the role of our armed detention officers.
“Started from Detention Officer Now, I’m Here” Testimonial: Hear firsthand from an HCSO Assistant Chief who began his career in detentions and has since progressed to the command level.
What’s next for the Jail? Introducing the new position of the Detentions K-9 Officer: Learn about the exciting new role of Detentions K-9 Officer within our organization.
Smart Study Tips to Help Pass the Licensing Course: Receive guidance on succeeding in the licensing course and beyond.
On-site Testing: Take the first step toward joining the HCSO by participating in on-site testing.

For more information about the HCSO Academy Open House and Hiring Expo, contact 713-877-5250.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office partners with Lights On! to launch an innovative program that replaces tickets with repair vouchers.

Instead of receiving a citation for minor vehicle violations, qualified individuals with valid driver’s licenses and insurance will be eligible to receive vouchers covering up to $250 for repairing inoperable headlights, taillights, turn signals, or license plate lights at vetted repair shops.

The Lights On! initiative launched on November 1, in the East Harris County and East Aldine area and will expand to other districts in the coming months.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office Foundation plays an integral role in this collaboration, helping to ensure the successful implementation of the program.

HCSO In The News

KHOU: Harris County Sheriff’s Office looking to recruit 500 detention officers

The department will be hosting an upcoming open house and hiring event on November 11. As the largest county in Texas continues to grow, so does the demand on the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. The department is in dire need of detention officers and wants to recruit quickly. Currently, there are about 1,900 HCSO detention officers, and according to Lieutenant Mike Nguyen, the department is looking to hire 500 more to outweigh the risks that come with these vacancies.

Houston Public Media: Sheriff’s Office launches pilot program to give repair vouchers instead of tickets for broken lights

Drivers in north Harris County who are pulled over for broken lights will now receive a repair voucher instead of a ticket as part of a pilot program to promotive positive police-community interactions. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Lights On! program, will give drivers in the East Aldine area vouchers of up to $250 to repair broken headlights, taillights, turn signals or license plate lights at participating auto shops. Eligible drivers must have a valid driver’s licenses and insurance.

WRBL News 3: New Horizons partners with Harris County first responders to introduce new Co-Responders Program

New Horizons Behavioral Health announced on Friday that it is expanding its services offered in Harris County by partnering with Harris County first responders to introduce a new Co-Responder Program.

The Co-Responder Program will pair emergency service professionals with New Horizons mental health professionals when responding to incidents where individuals may be experiencing a mental health crisis.

HCSO Teammates of the Week

Teammates of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO highlight teammates who go above and beyond.

Houston Rapper Donates Bluetooth Speakers to the HCSO Jail

Houston rapper TraeThaTruth and his foundation, Angel by Nature, donated bluetooth speakers for the incarcerated persons in our custody and care. The speakers will be in specialty tanks for cell block use. Music will bring a smile to their faces. We are grateful for your support!

HCSO Supports Operation Green Light

In support of Operation Green Light, a nationwide National Association of Counties (NACo) initiative, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Dispatch Center (EDC) will be illuminated in green through November 12 to show appreciation and support for veterans and their families.

Help Us Find the Person Responsible for a Hit-And-Run That Resulted in a Fatality in East Harris County

On October 15, 2023, at 11 p.m., Dwayne Joseph Brinac, 58, was riding his bicycle northbound in the 12800 block of Crosby Lynchburg Rd in East Harris County. When a dark-colored 2011-2015 Chrysler Town and Country van was traveling northbound, it struck the victim.

The vehicle then fled the scene of the crash without stopping and rendering aid to the victim. The victim sustained life-threatening injuries and died at the scene as a result of those injuries. Call 713-274-7400 or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-8477. Photo of the victim.

Congratulations to Our New Detention Officers

Deputy Lowry received the “Unsung Hero Award” at the Texas Adult Protective Services Conference. Deputy Lowry was honored for his work in the Boarding Home Detail, where he dedicates his energy to protecting those who can’t protect themselves.

Gun Buyback Event

Join the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and the Harris County Precinct 4 Office of Commissioner Lesley Briones for a Gun Buyback event on Saturday, November 18, from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Westchase Park and Ride, 11050 Harwin Drive, Houston, TX, 77072. Turn in your firearms to receive gift cards! We hope to see y’all there!

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the Office of Commissioner Lesley Briones, Precinct 4, to organize a gun buyback event. This event encourages residents to voluntarily turn in their firearms for gift cards just ahead of the holidays.

We hope to see everyone at the gun buyback event on Saturday, November 18, from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Westchase Park and Ride, 11050 Harwin Dr, Houston, TX, 77072.

This event is a proactive community safety initiative and can have positive outcomes in preventing accidents and promoting responsible gun ownership. There is $170,000 in gift cards to hand out to the community and those cards are ready for immediate use.

All weapons collected during this buy back event will be destroyed and will not be resold or kept by the Sheriff’s Office.

For those planning to turn in firearms next week, do not sell your firearms to solicitors who may be outside the event. You never know if that firearm ends up in the wrong hands. Let our professionally trained staff safely dispose of the firearms.

HCSO Bicycle Rodeo

Join Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO at the upcoming Bicycle Rodeo Event! HCSO deputies will be on hand to conduct bicycle inspections, provide safety tips, and answer all your questions.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Help Trick-or-Treaters Celebrate Halloween Safely

October 27, 2023 by HCMUD 150

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

Halloween is a fun and exciting holiday, but prioritizing safety is important, especially if you’re trick-or-treating or attending parties. Halloween is a night filled with costumes, candy, and festive fun, but it’s also important to consider safety before heading out.

Here are some Halloween safety tips:

Trick-or-treat in well-lit areas.
Always go with a group, and never trick-or-treat alone.
Stay on the sidewalk and use crosswalks when crossing the street.
Look both ways before crossing the street.
Carry a flashlight or glow sticks to be visible to drivers.
Inspect candy before eating it. Avoid homemade treats from strangers.
Do not use real candles in Jack-o’-lanterns; use battery-operated LED lights instead.
Check Sex Offender Registries ahead of Halloween day. Remember, sex offender registries provide information about individuals required by law to register. When searching for sex offender information, you can typically enter your address or the specific areas where you plan to be on Halloween to see if any registered offenders reside nearby. Knowing this information can help you ensure the safety of children.

Driver Safety:

Drive slowly and cautiously in residential areas where children may be present.
Be especially alert during the evening when visibility may be reduced.
Avoid distracted driving. Do not use your cell phone while driving.

General Safety:

If attending a Halloween party, designate a sober driver if alcohol is involved.
Discuss a meeting point or have a cell phone with your child if they are old enough to trick-or-treat without direct supervision.
Make sure your phone is charged and you have emergency contacts programmed.
Report suspicious activity: If you see something suspicious, please report it! This can include anything from strange behavior to vandalism.

Following these Halloween safety tips can help ensure a fun and safe Halloween for everyone. We hope everyone has a fun and safe Halloween!

HCSO Trunk-or-Treat Events

Join Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at our annual Trunk-or-Treat events. The HCSO trunk-or-treat events are free and offer a safe alternative to traditional trick-or-treating. Bring the kids to get candy and have spooky fun!

HCSO Trunk-or-Treat Friday, October 27, 2023

Hosted by HCSO District 4 at 18525 FM 529 Rd, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

HCSO Trunk-or-Treat Sunday, October 29, 2023

Hosted by HCSO and Macy’s at Macy’s Willowbrook Mall, 2000 Willowbrook Mall, Houston, TX 77070, from 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

HCSO Open House and Hiring Expo

Highlights of the event include:

Academy Tour: Step inside the HCSO Training Academy and explore the facilities where our teammates receive world-class training.
Incentives and New Higher Salary, Benefits: Learn about our competitive compensation packages and comprehensive benefits.
“A Day in the Life of a Detention Officer”: Gain insight into detention officers’ daily responsibilities and challenges.
Spotlight on the Detention Command Containment Team: Discover the specialized skills and training used by our Containment Team to maintain safety and order in the jail.
Armed Detention Officer Experience: Learn about the role of our armed detention officers.
“Started from Detention Officer Now, I’m Here” Testimonial: Hear firsthand from an HCSO Assistant Chief who began his career in detentions and has since progressed to the command level.
What’s next for the Jail? Introducing the new position of the Detentions K-9 Officer: Learn about the exciting new role of Detentions K-9 Officer within our organization.
Smart Study Tips to Help Pass the Licensing Course: Receive guidance on succeeding in the licensing course and beyond.
On-site Testing: Take the first step toward joining the HCSO by participating in on-site testing.

For more information about the HCSO Academy Open House and Hiring Expo, contact 713-877-5250.

HCSO In The News

KPRC: HCSO asks for public’s help in ‘unsolved murder’ of woman who was found in Sheldon Reservoir in June

Help HCSO solve the murder of Stephanie Leighane Carrizal. On June 10, her body was floating in a reservoir in east Harris County. Investigators determined that she had suffered trauma that was not consistent with drowning. Call Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS. Photo of the victim.

FOX: Riding along with the Harris County Sheriff’s

How does the Harris County Sheriff’s Office address people who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Watch the ride along with FOX 26 Houston!

“We try to inform them (the community) about preventative care all the resources the Harris Center provides. That way as the person seas the signs of their loved one deteiring they know they can do help them from getting bad,” Deputy Mejia said.

KHOU: Case of 4 people found shot to death in burning car in Channelview area remains unsolved after almost 7 years

The victims were identified as Christopher Chaney, 28, Nicholette Briscoe, 28, Willie Norman, 25, and Kelcii Flintroy, 19. The deaths of four people found shot to death inside a burning car in the Channelview area in 2016 remain unsolved as homicide investigators search for new leads in the case.

This homicide case is still open, pending new leads. Anyone with information, contact Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-8477.

KHOU: CIRT deputies on a mission to save lives

KHOU 11 hit the streets with deputies who are part of the Crisis Intervention Response Team who are on a mission to save lives. In many cases, going beyond the call of duty goes unnoticed, but for Harris County deputies like Esteban Hernandez, answering the call to protect and serve has led him down a personal, unique path to public safety. “I lost two close cousins that I was really, really close to, to suicide back in 2014,” he said.

FOX: Fundraiser in Humble supports injured Harris County Deputy

Local law enforcement officers and first responders gathered in Humble on Saturday to show support and raise funds for Harris County Deputy Joseph Anderson, who was critically injured in a shooting incident in August. The event, organized by The Thin Blue Line, a motorcycle club comprised of active duty, retired, or reserve law enforcement officers, aims to help Deputy Anderson on his road to recovery.

HCSO Stands Against Domestic Violence

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The HCSO Adult Special Crimes Section works collaboratively with our community partners to help victims. The Family Violence Unit, the Adult Sex Crimes Unit, and the Victim Assistance Unit are here to assist and support victims on their journey to becoming survivors.

These specialized units are responsible for investigating family violence and adult sex crime cases. The Victim Assistance Unit provides immediate crisis intervention; they work collaboratively with our domestic violence partners in the community to find emergency shelter. They also assist victims with legal resources and other critical services that help victims with immediate needs and navigate the criminal justice system.

If you or someone you know needs help, call 911 or the Victim Assistance Unit at 713-274-9369. Together, we can make a stand to end domestic and sexual violence for all.

Happy National First Responders Day

Happy First Responders Day to our deputies, detention officers, dispatchers, volunteer reservists, and all of our teammates! First responders play a vital role in keeping our communities safe with dedication. Thank you for protecting and assisting our community!

Take the Red Ribbon Pledge to Live Drug-Free

HCSO Community Engagement hosted our annual Red Ribbon Boat Ride. Red Ribbon Week embraces the belief that one person can make a difference and challenges us to join forces to educate our youth about the risks of substance abuse. Visit redribbon.org to obtain drug prevention resources.

Congrats to Deputy Lowry for receiving the Unsung Hero Award

HCSO Behavioral Health Division

Great presentation at the 2023 IACP Conference by HCSO Dr. Thomas McNeese discussing the creation of our Behavioral Health Division (BHD). Since its implementation in 2020, BHD has responded to 224 critical incidents and 3,945 routine clinic visits.

HCSO Teammates of the Week

Teammates of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO highlight teammates who go above and beyond.

Upcoming HCSO Events

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

Have unused prescription drugs in your medicine cabinet? Join the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 28, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Visit two locations:

7900 Will Clayton Pkwy
23828 Tomball Pkwy

For more information, visit dea.gov/takebackday.

Family Fall Fest

Join the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at a free Family Fall Fest on Saturday, November 4, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The fest will be at Windwood Presbyterian Church, 10555 Spring Cypress Rd, Houston, TX 77070.

Gun Buyback Event

HCSO Bicycle Rodeo

Join Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO at the upcoming Bicycle Rodeo Event! HCSO deputies will be on hand to conduct bicycle inspections, provide safety tips, and answer all your questions.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Keep Your Community Safe During Crime Prevention Month!

October 13, 2023 by HCMUD 150

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

Crime Prevention Month recognizes the role each of us plays in promoting safety awareness and neighborhood unity. Crime prevention is most effective when residents, public safety agencies, businesses, houses of worship, and schools collaborate.

One of the most important aspects of crime prevention is increasing our awareness of our surroundings. We are the experts when it comes to knowing our own neighborhood the best.

Crime Prevention Tips

The National Crime Prevention Council and local law enforcement agencies join yearly to spread the word about personal safety and crime prevention resources.

Crime prevention starts with you. Take precautions to reduce your vulnerability to certain crimes, including theft, fraud, and property crime.

Stay active in your community. Join your homeowner association or Neighborhood Watch Program.
Be aware of the crimes being reported in your area.
Sign up for Nextdoor, a social platform that lets you make online connections with your neighbors to exchange helpful information about your community. Follow our agency to become more aware of how we support and serve you daily.
Keep your doors locked. Protect windows and sliding glass doors with good locks or other security measures.
The Sheriff’s Office offers an added sense of security when you go out of town through its Vacation Watch Program.
Park in well-lit, busy areas. Hide valuables in your car or remove them entirely from your car.

See Something, Say Something

See something, say something. We need everyone to be involved and energized in their efforts to protect themselves, their family, and their property.

Contact Us

Are you looking for more crime prevention tips and resources? Call the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Community Engagement Division at 346-286-3125 or visit the National Crime Prevention Council’s website.

WATCH: HCSO Stands Against Domestic Violence

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The HCSO Victim Assistance Unit works collaboratively with our partners to help victims. It was established in 2017 as part of the Adult Special Crimes Unit to assist and support victims of domestic violence and sexual assault on their journey to becoming survivors.

This specialized unit assesses a victim’s needs and provides:

Immediate crisis intervention.
Working collaboratively with our domestic violence partners in the community to find emergency shelter.
Legal resources.
Other critical services that help victims navigate the criminal justice system.
The Violent Crimes Advocates respond to active scenes in real time.

Contact Us

At the Sheriff’s Office, we take our duty seriously to help those hurt by someone who is supposed to love them. If you are in a domestic violence situation or want to report a domestic violence, contact one of the numbers below:

If you are in immediate danger, call or text 911.
Harris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Victims Unit: 713-274-9369.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-7233 or if you’re unable to speak safely, you can text 88788.

We stand together with domestic violence victims, survivors, and the many organizations in our region whose mission is to end domestic and sexual violence for all.

Donation Drive to Support Victims of Domestic Violence

The HCSO Victim Assistance Unit works collaboratively with our partners to help victims. HCSO is accepting donations for local non-profit organizations to assist domestic violence and sexual assault victims. The donation drive ends on October 27. You can drop off your donations at four drop-off locations.

HCSO Ford Mustang Mach-E

Meet the latest add to our fleet, the Ford Mustang GT Mach-E. These fully electric vehicles w/480 HP & 0-60mph in 3.5 secs will beef up traffic enforcement duty. From horseback to this modern-day Pony, the HCSO is committed to being a 21st Century Leading Law Enforcement Agency.

HCSO In The News

KPRC: Billboard campaign for Domestic Violence Awareness Month launches in partnership with Rockets Forward Tari Eason

“The Aid to Victims of Domestic Violence organization launched its billboard campaign on Thursday ahead of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. The billboards were donated by Clear Channel Outdoor.

According to a news release, the campaign, featuring Houston Rockets Forward Tari Eason, will be seen across Harris and Fort Bend counties on six surface street billboards and 52 freeway billboards in English and Spanish.”

KHOU: What you can do to stay safe with the rise in jugging incidents in and around Houston

“Law enforcement authorities across the Houston area want people to be extra aware whenever they visit an ATM. They said criminals are getting more organized, and even traveling farther, when it comes to identifying and tracking down their victims. “It’s so easy to become a victim at any point in time,” Harris County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Cutis Jones said.

My Neighborhood News: Harris County Sheriff’s Office Honors National Hispanic Heritage Month

“National Hispanic Month is about acknowledging the various Hispanic cultures within our communities,” said Sgt. Castro. “I honor my mother and the sacrifices she made growing up by implementing the work ethic, compassion and humility she taught me. I’m able to relate to Spanish-speaking members of my community by being able to communicate with them and showing kids that they can do it, too.”

The HCSO Honor Guard presented the colors at the Astros Game 2 last Sunday, October 8, 2023. What an honor! Let’s go, Astros!

National Night Out 2023

2023 National Night Out: Despite the inclement weather, we enjoyed interacting with our residents and creating memories. Click here to view the photos. We look forward to next year’s NNO!

WATCH: Congratulations to the newly promoted HCSO members!

Last week, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office hosted a promotion ceremony for 22 teammates. Congratulations, and we wish them all the best! Click here to view the photo gallery.

HCSO Coffee and Careers

Thanks so much to everyone who joined the HCSO Coffee and Careers Event! For those of you looking for a new career opportunity, we are hiring! Call 713-877-5250 or visit HCSOJobs.com for more information.

Hispanic Heritage Month

As we come to the end of Hispanic Heritage Month, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are highlighting our agency’s leaders.

Upcoming HCSO Events

HCSO Trunk-Or-Treat Events

Join Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at our annual Trunk-or-Treat events. Bring the kids to get candy and have spooky fun!

HCSO Trunk-or-Treat October 20, 2023

HCSO District 3 Substation, located at 14350 Wallisville Rd, Houston, TX 77049. From 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.

HCSO Trunk-or-Treat October 25, 2023

Julia C. Hester Community Center & HCSO Parks Unit, located at 2020 Solo St, Houston, TX 77020, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m.

HCSO Open House and Hiring Expo!

Join Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at the HCSO Open House and Hiring Expo on Saturday, November 11, 2023, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the HCSO Academy, located at 2316 Atascocita Road, Humble, TX 77396.

Candidates can take advantage of this opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at the HCSO Training Academy and the countless ways to grow your future career! We will have academy tours, on-site testing, Q&A sessions, testimonials, and more.

If you know someone looking for a new career opportunity, we are hiring detention officers, communication officers, deputy cadets, lateral deputies, and more. For more information, contact the HCSO Recruiting Unit at 713-877-5250 or visit HCSOJobs.com.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

Have unused prescription drugs in your medicine cabinet? Join the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 28, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Visit two locations:

7900 Will Clayton Pkwy
23828 Tomball Pkwy

For more information, visit dea.gov/takebackday.