Author: HCMUD 150

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Together, We Can Help Stop Auto Theft in Harris County

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez

Harris County,

Here’s something worth knowing: when a car is stolen, the theft itself might only be the first chapter. A lot of stolen vehicles get taken apart, quickly, and sold off piece by piece. Doors, engines, transmissions, all separated and sold, often before anyone even realizes the car isn’t coming back.

That’s exactly what our Auto Theft detectives found recently at three locations across Harris County. Working alongside DPS, County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security, and HPD, our team executed search warrants and recovered four stolen vehicles — including a Dodge Charger and a Chevrolet Silverado — along with 252 stolen parts and components. One suspect was arrested after trying to run from deputies.

“A lot of times they part these cars out, and each individual part has a serial number, and some don’t,” said Detective Jose Castellanos. “When you separate all that, it’s a lot harder to identify that as an actual stolen vehicle.”

That’s the challenge our detectives are up against, and it’s why this kind of investigation takes time. They’re still working through recovered parts, tracing them back to specific thefts, and figuring out who else may be connected.

Auto theft doesn’t stop at a county line, and neither do we.

A few reminders to help protect your vehicle:

  • Park in well-lit, high-traffic areas, ideally with cameras nearby.
  • Lock your doors every time, and consider a steering wheel lock for extra deterrence.
  • Never leave your keys or fob inside the vehicle, even for “just a minute.”
  • A GPS tracker can make a big difference if your vehicle is ever taken.

And if you’re shopping for a used vehicle or parts, be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Buying stolen property, even unknowingly, can put you in a tough spot too.

If you see something that doesn’t sit right — a vehicle being taken apart in a driveway, or a steady stream of car parts coming and going from a property — say something. That tip could be exactly what connects a case.

Stay safe out there, Harris County Sheriff’s Office

HCSO In the News

Harris County Neighborhoods Prepare for National Night Out 2026 on Oct. 6

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is inviting neighborhoods, civic associations, apartment communities, churches, schools and other local groups to participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026, continuing a nationwide tradition centered on police-community partnerships and stronger connections between neighbors.

‘Garage Sale Murder’: How a doorbell camera captured Texas woman’s murder

Elizabeth Barraza got up at dawn on Jan. 25, 2019, eager to set up a garage sale outside her home in Tomball, Texas. Minutes after saying goodbye to her husband as he left for work, Barraza was shot four times at close range in a devastating murder that was captured on her doorbell camera. She died the following day.

Work Begins on Unique Water Rescue Training Facility in Houston

Harris County leaders, alongside the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) and project partners PGAL and Kitchell, have officially broken ground on the region’s first dedicated Swift Water Rescue Training Facility. Designed to address recurring severe storms and flooding challenges, this purpose-built complex provides a controlled, realistic environment for life-saving water rescue training right at home.

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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.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

💬 “I was pulled over by Sergeant Fredrick, and he was direct but polite. He was clear about why I was stopped, and he was professional as he carried on with his duties. I have had previous encounters with other law enforcement, and I did not like how I was spoken to. I work in another agency and am very familiar with the expectations of our family behind the badge. Sergeant Fredrick represents HCSO well.”

Sergeant Fredrick has served with HCSO for over 23 years, joining as a Detention Officer in March 2003 and becoming certified in July 2004. He currently serves as a Sergeant in the Special Enforcement Bureau/Parks Evening shift.

👏Thank you, Sgt. Fredrick!

A Harris County resident recently shared:

💬 “Deputy Mahon recognized that a student, due to circumstances out of their control, was in need of some new clothing and shoes. He took it upon himself to go to the store and purchase the student new shoes, some shirts and socks. Deputy Mahon did this not for praise or accolades, but only because he cares for the students and has a big heart. His service is beyond protecting the school. It’s caring about the students.”

Deputy Mahon has served with HCSO since 2017 and brings 15 years of law enforcement experience. His work goes beyond keeping students safe, it’s about showing up for them, in every way that matters.

👏Thank you, Deputy Mahon, for reminding us that true service comes from the heart. We’re proud to call you a teammate.

Plan ahead. Drive safe. Get home safely.

Ahead of Labor Day weekend, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined our law enforcement and criminal justice partners for a press conference highlighting our shared commitment to keeping Harris County roads safe.

HCSO, all eight Harris County Constable Precincts, the Houston Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office are working together as DWI enforcement increases throughout the holiday weekend.

If your plans include drinking, make your plan for a safe ride home before the celebration begins. Impaired driving is preventable — and one responsible decision can save a life.

National Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month. If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, remember: you are not alone.

📞 Call 988 or The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD at 713-970-7000.

Support and hope are always within reach.

Detention Officer Recognized for Life-Saving Actions

🌟 Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO recognize Detention Officer Shotayo Tejousho for his life-saving actions during a critical medical emergency! Without hesitation, he stepped in to provide CPR and helped ensure an inmate received the care he needed. Congratulations, and thank you for your outstanding service! 👏

Operation Heatwave Targets Violent Crime in Harris County

Operation Heatwave turned up the pressure on crime across Harris County.

The HCSO-led initiative brought together local, state and federal law enforcement partners to target violent crime, robberies, auto thefts and other offenses in areas seeing the most activity.

The results:

  • 97 arrests and 96 warrants cleared
  • More than $150,000 in stolen vehicles recovered
  • More than $41,000 in additional stolen property recovered

HCSO SWAT Training

This is what staying ready looks like.

HCSO SWAT trained alongside partners, refining the tactics and teamwork required for the highest-risk operations. Every repetition builds confidence, precision, and readiness for the moments when there’s no room for error.

Because when our community needs them most, preparation makes the difference.

Join HCSO Today

Ready for a career that makes a difference? Join HCSO and serve Harris County with grit, compassion and purpose. Learn more about becoming an HCSO Deputy at HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250.

Training to Stay Ready

Prepared for the moments that matter most.

HCSO’s Special Enforcement Bureau, joined partner agencies for a large-scale active shooter training exercise at Faithbridge Church in North Harris County.

The drill gave first responders the opportunity to train together in a realistic environment, strengthen coordination and sharpen their response to critical incidents.

Training today helps us respond when seconds matter. 🚔

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez — Building a Stronger Swiftwater Response

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez

Harris County,

I am thrilled to share that last week marked an exciting milestone for the safety of our community: we broke ground on Harris County’s very first Swiftwater Rescue Training Facility.

This new facility means one thing above all — when the next flood hits, the first responders arriving at your door will be better trained, better prepared, and better equipped to bring your family home safely. That’s not a small thing. That’s the whole point.

Harris County floods. We know it, and after Hurricane Harvey and Imelda, so many of our neighbors know it firsthand too. For years, if our deputies wanted to get certified in swiftwater rescue, they had to travel all the way past Austin — and when that facility closed, we lost that resource entirely. Meanwhile, our county keeps growing, which means more families, more neighborhoods, and more people counting on us to show up prepared when the water rises.

This facility changes that. It will offer hands-on training right here at home for first responders across our region, covering water rescue techniques, entrapment avoidance, swimming proficiency, and effective team coordination. When our teams train together, they build the kind of trust that matters most in the middle of a rescue — and that trust can be the difference between everyone getting home safely and a tragedy.

I still think back to Hurricane Harvey often. I was new as your Sheriff when it hit, and I remember how quickly the water rose and how many of us went out to help with no formal training for what we were facing. We got people home because that’s who we are. But our community deserves more than grit alone — you deserve first responders who trained for this before the storm ever arrives.

I want to take a moment to thank everyone who believed in this project from the beginning. A big thank you to the Commissioners Court for prioritizing public safety and championing this initiative. My sincere appreciation also goes to County Engineer Dr. Milton Rahman and his incredible team at the Office of the County Engineer for their expertise and hard work in bringing this vision to life. And to the voters of Harris County — thank you for your trust in approving the bonds that made this facility possible. You invested in your own safety, and we don’t take that lightly.

I also want to highlight two outstanding members of our own team, Mike Lee and Sean Williams, whose unwavering advocacy made this project a reality. This facility stands because they didn’t let it drop.

Last week, we took the first step. Soon, those doors will open. And when the next storm comes, I want every family in Harris County to know: the people answering your call have trained for this moment.

Thank you for your trust in us, every single day. Together, we are building a safer future.

HCSO In the News

Harris County Sheriff’s Office Warns Hearthstone Residents About Deputy Impersonation Scam Demanding Immediate Payment

A phone call from someone claiming to be a sheriff’s deputy can get a person’s attention quickly — especially when the caller already seems to know who they are. That sense of urgency is exactly what scammers are counting on in a scheme currently targeting Harris County residents.

A Harris County Sheriff’s Office investigator recently flagged a high volume of calls in which fraudsters impersonate HCSO deputies, tell residents they have an active arrest warrant and demand immediate payment to avoid being arrested.

Before the next flood, Harris County is changing how rescues begin

For years, Harris County first responders have had to leave the region to receive specialized swiftwater rescue training. That is about to change.

County officials broke ground Friday on a new Swiftwater Rescue Training Facility at 1731 Hugh Road. The center will give deputies, constables, firefighters and other emergency personnel a place to practice water rescues, entrapment avoidance, swimming skills and team coordination in controlled conditions.

Behind the Badge: Sgt. Arthur Kuk and Det. Christian Gonzalez of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Metal Theft Task Force

Sergeant Arthur Kuk and Detective Christian Gonzalez of HCSO’s Metal Theft Task Force led the investigation into thefts that cost AT&T more than $6 million across Greater Houston, resulting in multiple arrests and over $1 million in recovered equipment. AT&T publicly praised the partnership and Sheriff Ed Gonzalez’s leadership in keeping the community’s critical infrastructure secure.

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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.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

💬 “I want to thank the HCSO Emergency Dispatch Center first for handling my call so promptly and professionally. I ran out of gas on the way to the gas station only 1/4 mile away, and my two autistic kiddos were in the car. I didn’t know who else to call. Deputy Sultan showed up and assured me I was ok. Helped me set up the gas bottle, fill my tank, and get me on the road again. I was having the roughest day ever and just wanted to take my kids to the park. Thank you again, Deputy Sultan.”

Deputy Sultan has served with HCSO for nine years, spending his entire law enforcement career with the department. He currently serves as a Patrol Deputy in District 6, in north Harris County.

👏 Thank you, Deputy Sultan, for turning a stressful moment into one of relief and reassurance for a mom just trying to get her kids to the park. Your kindness and quick response made all the difference!

A Harris County resident recently shared:

💬”I would like to formally commend Sgt. Escobar for his exceptional assistance during a recent roadside incident. A mattress fell from another truck and became lodged underneath my vehicle, leaving me frightened, overwhelmed, and concerned for my safety and my family. Sgt. Escobar responded with professionalism, patience, and compassion. When he saw my distress, he personally paid cash for a tow truck to assist in lifting my vehicle and resolving the situation safely. He, along with another officer, also helped remove the mattress from underneath my car. His kindness, quick action, and willingness to go beyond what is expected had a significant impact on me during a very stressful moment. I am deeply grateful for his help and would like his actions to be formally recognized! Thank you so much, God bless you!”

Sgt. Escobar joined HCSO in May 2014, but his law enforcement career began in July 2006. He currently serves as a Sergeant on Patrol in District 4, which covers west Harris County, and he works evening shifts. Prior to his law enforcement career, Sgt. Escobar proudly served in the United States Air Force.

👏 Thank you, Sgt. Escobar, for your compassion and quick thinking when a community member needed help most — and for reaching into your own pocket to make sure she got home safely. This is what service above and beyond looks like.

Two Years Later: The Search for Answers Continues


Kelly Masciarelli, her son Kolin Foster, and his girlfriend Cameryn Richard were murdered inside a Cypress home that was intentionally set on fire.

The FBI has now increased the reward to up to $50,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of those responsible.

We are resharing previously released surveillance video showing a male suspect with a tall, muscular build getting into a black four-door sedan driven by another individual. Investigators believe someone may recognize the suspect, the vehicle, or know something about what happened that night.

If you know something, say something.

📞 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)

💻 tips.fbi.gov

Even the smallest detail could help bring justice to these families.

🚔 There’s No Loophole

Spoiler alert: there’s no loophole. HCSO deputies are increasing DWI enforcement through Labor Day.

Make the right call before you ever get behind the wheel — plan a sober ride, use a rideshare, or hand over the keys.

Drive sober. Get home safe.

Director David Klozik Named 2026 PSAPs’ Finest Director of the Year

Long before a deputy arrives, before lights and sirens, someone is already there — on the phone, listening through the panic, bringing order to chaos, and making the split-second decisions that set everything else in motion.

That’s the work David Klozik has spent his career leading, and this month, it was recognized on a national stage.

David, Director of our Emergency Dispatch Center, has been named the 2026 PSAPs’ Finest Director of the Year by NiCE Public Safety — a national award now in its twenty-first year, honoring the individuals and teams whose skill, compassion, and leadership keep emergency communications running when every second counts. Winners aren’t chosen by NiCE itself, but by an independent panel of respected leaders from the 911 and public safety community — which makes this recognition mean even more.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to lead a room full of telecommunicators through the worst moments of other people’s lives, day after day, David is a good example. It’s a job that rarely gets seen by the public, but its impact reaches every single call that comes through our Emergency Dispatch Center — and every family on the other end of that call.

We couldn’t be prouder to see David’s leadership recognized at this level. Congratulations, David — this one’s well earned. 🎉

Leadership in Action: Detention Sergeant Andrews

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO recognize Detention Sergeant Andrews for her exemplary leadership and quick action in ensuring the safety and welfare of those in our custody.

As Supervisor of the Standards & Compliance Unit, Sergeant Andrews responded swiftly to an unexpected challenge, directing her team to ensure a safe and efficient resolution while showing thoughtful consideration for those in her care.

Thank you for embodying diligence, compassion, and operational readiness every single day! 👏

📣 Calling All Future Leaders!

Are you a high school student ready to lead? The HCSO Youth Leadership Council is now accepting applications!

Council members meet monthly with HCSO leaders, get behind-the-scenes access to the department, and tackle real topics like bullying prevention, teen dating violence, suicide prevention, drug & alcohol awareness, and traffic safety — all while building leadership skills for college and career.

Plus, members gain access to scholarship opportunities and a boost to their resumes and college applications!

Who can apply?
✅ High school students (Grades 9–12)
✅ Harris County residents
✅ Good academic standing
✅ Motivated and ready to lead

Spots are limited — apply now! See your school counselor or visit harriscountyso.org/Services/YouthLeadershipCouncil to fill out an application.

Welcome to the Team!

Congratulations to our newest class of Detention Officers on their graduation!

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO couldn’t be prouder of these men and women who answered the call to serve. Welcome to the team!

Ready to start your own career in service? 📞 Call 713-877-5250 or visit HCSOJobs.com to apply today!

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez — Conversations to Have Before the First Bell Rings

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

Another school year is here, and with it comes a mix of excitement, a little chaos, and a lot of love packed into these first few weeks. Whether you’re walking your child to the bus stop, driving them to school, or watching them ride off on their bike for the first time on their own, I know how much trust you’re placing in all of us- teachers, neighbors, and yes, your Sheriff’s Office- to help keep them safe along the way.

That trust means everything to us. It’s why our team has been putting together a series of simple, practical safety tips for parents, students, and drivers, covering everything from open communication at home, to safe routes to school, to what to do in an emergency. Starting next week, you’ll see these shared on our social media, and I hope you’ll take a few minutes to talk through them with your family.

Here’s what I’d ask of every driver in Harris County: please slow down in school zones. Watch for our kids crossing the street, stop for school buses, and put the phone down. These are simple things, but they save lives, and every child deserves to make it home safely at the end of the day.

As e-bikes continue to grow in popularity, we also want to remind parents to make sure their child’s e-bike is legal to operate in Texas. Under Texas law, an electric bicycle must have fully operable pedals, a motor of fewer than 750 watts, and a top assisted speed of no more than 28 mph. Parents should make sure their children ride responsibly and wear a properly fitted helmet. It’s also a good idea to check with your child’s school district, as many schools have their own policies on whether and where e-bikes are permitted on campus.

Beyond these everyday safety habits, I also want you to know that we’re working year-round with school districts across our region to prepare for the moments none of us want to imagine.

Earlier this year, we hosted the first Harris County Active Threat Tabletop, bringing together superintendents, district police chiefs, and emergency management leaders to pressure-test our response to school-based emergencies, and we followed it with a second exercise in April. This isn’t a one-time meeting; it’s an ongoing commitment to preparation, partnership, and accountability across every district we serve.

To every parent preparing backpacks this week, you’re not alone in this. Our deputies are out there in school zones, at bus stops, and in our neighborhoods, working every day to help make this year a safe and successful one for your children.

Here’s to a great school year, Harris County. Let’s look out for each other.

HCSO In the News

New Harris County driving center aims to make first responders safer

Harris County is moving forward with plans to build a first-of-its-kind driving training center where deputies, constables and other first responders will practice high-risk driving scenarios in a controlled environment.

The new D.R.I.V.E. Center, planned for the Humble area, will provide Harris County law enforcement agencies with a dedicated facility for precision driving training, something county officials say does not currently exist. The facility will be located at 2316 Atascocita Road and will serve the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office, and all eight Harris County Constable precincts.

Ex-boyfriend fatally shoots 17-year-old mother of his child and her brother in Texas: sheriff

A 17-year-old mother and her 29-year-old brother were shot and killed by her ex-boyfriend after he confronted them outside her Texas home, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said that deputies responded to the shooting in the 200-block of West Canino Road after receiving the call at about 10:50 a.m. local time on Sunday.

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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.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“I was pleasantly surprised by Deputy Esparza, one of the Deputies at 701 N San Jacinto. He greeted me with a smile, took my ID, and called me by my name. He made the whole experience so much nicer, so much so that on my way out, I waited in line to get his name so I could submit this commendation. Everyone deserves respect, and it doesn’t cost anything to show kindness. He understands that better than most.”

Deputy Esparza has served with HCSO for 7 years, beginning his law enforcement career in May 2019. He currently works at the 701 Jail Operations facility, where he oversees visitation and responds to any outside disturbances.

Thank you, Deputy Esparza, for the compassion and respect you show every visitor who walks through those doors. Your kindness doesn’t go unnoticed!

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“I would like to thank the two deputies who assisted me with my case. The deputies drove us home and helped us with the groceries that we had purchased since we didn’t have a way home. Deputy Bonilla and Deputy Miller were friendly, polite, and very helpful. I do appreciate them so much.”

Deputy Phillip Miller joined the HCSO Reserve in 2016, serving D5 Patrol. He became full-time with HCSO in September 2020 and has served as a Field Training Officer in D5 since 2021.

Deputy Diego Bonilla joined HCSO on May 19, 2025, when he started the academy. He currently serves as a Probationary Patrol Deputy (PPD).

Thank you, Deputy Miller and Deputy Bonilla, for going above and beyond to make sure a Harris County resident got home safely. Your kindness and dedication make a real difference!

A Bond Beyond the Badge: Remembering Alberto Cardenas

For 16 years, the Cardenas family has returned to HCSO with homemade tamales — a tradition that began as a simple thank-you and has become a lasting bond.

On July 27, 2010, 15-year-old Alberto Cardenas was killed during a home invasion robbery in Spring. Sgt. Jason Brown led the investigation that ultimately brought his killer to justice. Through it all, investigators and the Cardenas family stood side by side, from the initial days of canvassing for leads to years of hearings and sentencing.

Today, Alberto’s memory lives on through his family’s tradition and through the relationships built between them and the investigators who never stopped fighting for justice on his behalf.

Join Us for a FREE Back-to-School Community Event!

Back-to-school season is better together! Bring the whole family to our FREE community event on August 15 for backpacks, food, snow cones, games, and a chance to explore HCSO’s SWAT Truck, Mounted Patrol, MAP Unit, and more. See you there!

HCSO K-9s: The Untold Story

For our HCSO K-9s… It’s finally their turn to tell the story.

Interviews have been translated from “Bark” for your convenience.

Federal Legislation Introduced to Honor Fallen Detective Darren Almendarez

Detective Darren Almendarez’s legacy continues to protect others. Last week, the bipartisan Deputy Darren Almendarez Act was introduced in Congress to strengthen the fight against catalytic converter theft. The legislation honors Detective Almendarez, who was shot and killed while off duty as he tried to stop this very crime.

“Darren gave his life protecting me that night as well as the community at large. The Deputy Darren Almendarez Act means so much to our family because it represents more than legislation—it represents hope,” said Flor Zarzoza-Almendarez, Deputy Almendarez’s wife.

We are grateful to everyone helping ensure Detective Almendarez’s courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting others will never be forgotten.

Three Detention Officers Commended

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO recognize Detention Officers Battah, Galvan, and Driver-Smith for receiving a Letter of Commendation for their outstanding vigilance while on duty.

During separate proactive searches, these officers discovered concealed, dangerous contraband, successfully removing potential threats from the facility before they could cause harm.

Their attentiveness, teamwork, and commitment to safety exemplify the highest standards of the HCSO. We are proud to acknowledge their dedication to protecting our facility, our staff, and the community.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez — Preventing Auto Theft: How HCSO Stands Watch With You All Year

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.

See the post.

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.

See the post.

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.

See the post.

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.

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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 the post.

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.

Register here.

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.

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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

Register here.