The Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place from September 15 to October 15. This month-long celebration acknowledges and honors the heritage and significant contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to our community and nation.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the diverse traditions and achievements of Hispanic communities. It provides an opportunity to appreciate the cultural richness that Hispanic Americans bring to our society. This celebration acknowledges the vital role that Hispanic and Latino individuals have played in shaping the history and culture of our country.
At HCSO, we are fortunate to have a diverse team, including many dedicated Hispanic and Latino teammates. Their commitment to serving our community exemplifies the values of integrity, service, and excellence. Their contributions are an important part of our agency’s success and reflect the diversity of our community.
This month, we encourage everyone to engage in activities that promote understanding and appreciation of Hispanic cultures. Attend local events, explore Hispanic art and music, and participate in educational programs highlighting the accomplishments and heritage of Hispanic Americans.
HCSO will highlight stories, events, and educational resources to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on social media platforms. We welcome all members of our community to participate.
We are dedicated to creating an environment where every community member feels respected and appreciated. As we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, we fully embrace diversity while collaborating to strengthen our community.
Beware of Scammers Posing as Law Enforcement Officers
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office wants to alert everyone about some dangerous scams going around. Scammers are pretending to be law enforcement officers to steal money.
These criminals may claim you missed a court date, skipped jury duty, or have a warrant out for your arrest. They’ll pressure you to pay fines or provide personal information, saying it will help you avoid further trouble.
They often sound convincing, using fake and real names, official-sounding titles, and even fake and real phone numbers to look legitimate. But please know—the Harris County Sheriff’s Office will never ask for payment over the phone.
If you or someone you know gets one of these suspicious calls, here’s what to do:
Hang up right away. Don’t interact with the caller.
Never share personal or financial information. Scammers often ask for details like your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card.
Verify the call by contacting the official agency directly using a trusted phone number, not the one provided by the caller.
If you think you’ve been targeted or know someone who has, take action:
Report it to local law enforcement at 713-221-6000 or call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
If you’ve shared any financial information, notify your bank or credit card company immediately.
Spread the word to friends and family so they can be on guard.
We urge everyone to stay alert and help stop these scams from hurting others. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Stay safe!
HCSO In the News
MyTexasDaily: Harris County Jail Showcases Veterans Support Program to Texas Veterans Commission
HOUSTON, Texas — The Harris County Sheriff’s Office hosted a tour of its jail facilities for the Texas Veterans Commission and Commissioner Kevin Barber, highlighting the success of the “Brothers in Arms” program, which supports incarcerated veterans.”
Click2Houston: ‘We’re getting these every day’: Scams involving cryptocurrency on the rise in Houston
HOUSTON – Every year, it seems like scammers find new ways to defraud people.
Since the rise of cryptocurrency, criminals are turning to it more and more often as a way to scam people out of their hard-earned cash.“We’re getting these every day. Every day we’re getting calls from people getting these calls.
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.
“Deputy Norma Estrada is a hard-working deputy who helps residents in times of crisis. She is very compassionate and caring. She does not give up until the crisis is resolved,” said a Harris County resident. “I was stranded on a road when I locked my key in my car, in hot scorching temperatures I passed out. She called for help and waited until the help came.”
Deputy Estrada began her law enforcement career with our agency as a Detention Officer in 2017. She currently serves in HCSO District Four’s Patrol Unit in West Harris County.
Supporting Our Next Generation of Law Enforcement Leaders
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is thrilled to announce that the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Foundation has generously donated a van to our Law Enforcement Explorer Program!
The Explorer Program, sponsored by the East Aldine District, is designed for young adults passionate about pursuing a career in law enforcement.
Through hands-on training, mentorship, and leadership development, participants gain invaluable insights and skills to help shape their future careers in public safety.
If you want to join the Explorer Program, you can attend a meeting on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 2909 E. Aldine Amphitheater Drive.
Thank you to the HCSO Foundation and the East Aldine Management District for supporting our next generation of law enforcement leaders.
We are asking for the community’s assistance finding justice for Jarvon Coles. We urge anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward. Crime Stoppers may pay up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of the suspects in this case.
Contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit at 713-274-9100 or provide an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS (8477).
Ed Gonzalez Speaks at the NALO Educational Fund Conference
On Friday, September 20, 2024, the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund hosted a policy institute conference on emergency preparedness.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez had the honor of speaking at the event, providing valuable insights on planning for all hazards, effective communications, and mass evacuation procedures during emergencies.
The event provided an excellent platform to discuss the important role law enforcement plays in safeguarding communities in times of crisis. Thanks to NALEO for the invite!
Congratulations to HCSO Major Jennifer Herndon for being honored with the 2024 Partnership Lake Houston First Responder of the Year Award! Her dedication and outstanding service continue to inspire us all. Thank you for your exceptional commitment to our community!
In recognition of Thank a Police Officer Day on September 21, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the HCSO extend their heartfelt gratitude to our deputies for their dedication to protecting and serving our community. Thank you for answering the call to serve and for working tirelessly with our residents to make Harris County a better place.
For National Forensic Science Week, September 15-21, 2024, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the HCSO recognized our dedicated teammates who work tirelessly to solve crimes and bring justice to victims, making a positive impact on our community. Thank you for all you do! Happy National Forensic Science Week!
From September 15-21, 2024, HCSO observed Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week. The safety of our children is always a top priority. For tips on keeping your children safe in vehicles, please visit here.
On Saturday, September 14, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office had a fantastic time participating in the Grand Parade commemorating the 214th anniversary of Mexico’s Independence Day!
We enjoyed connecting with our community; it was a wonderful celebration of culture, heritage, and community.
Thanks to the organizers, Consulado General de México en Houston, and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) for inviting us.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has noticed an increase in bank jugging incidents. These happen when criminals observe individuals withdrawing cash from ATMs or banks and then follow them to steal their money.
Stay vigilant and take steps to protect yourself! Below are a few safety tips. By working together, we can help prevent these crimes and keep our community safe.
To view your water bill as soon as it is posted. You don’t have to wait for paper statement to know exactly the amount of your monthly bill. Sign up today, it is easy and free.
You can pay your water bill online, for a fee or you can still mail a check or make payments at the water district office.
On Thursday, September 5, 2024, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office held a promotions ceremony to honor the accomplishments of its dedicated team members. Ten officers were promoted to sergeant, two to lieutenant, Jason Scott was promoted to Detention Captain, and Darrell Criss advanced to Captain. These individuals have consistently demonstrated their commitment to public service and are prepared to take on increased responsibilities within the department.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez expressed pride in the officers during his remarks, emphasizing that their promotions are the beginning of new leadership roles. He highlighted the significance of leading with integrity, setting a positive example, and tackling challenges with strength and compassion. He also encouraged the officers to learn and grow in their careers continuously and to stay connected with the community they serve.
The Sheriff thanked the friends and families in attendance, recognizing their important role in supporting their loved ones. He said, “The best is yet to come,” highlighting the shared journey of the officers and their support systems. He thanked them for their ongoing commitment to the HCSO and hard work in reaching this milestone.
HCSO Introduces New Detective Rank and Promotes 210 Officers
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is thrilled to introduce a new rank: Detective. This development aims to strengthen the department’s investigative work and improve its ability to serve the community more effectively.
A total of 210 officers have been promoted to the new rank of Detective, recognizing their dedication, skills, and hard work. This promotion highlights their achievements and emphasizes the department’s commitment to building a stronger investigative team capable of handling more complex cases. Introducing the Detective rank is expected to streamline investigations and ensure more effective justice delivery.
An official ceremony to honor the newly promoted detectives will soon be held to recognize their accomplishments and contributions publicly. Family members, colleagues, and department leaders will gather to celebrate this significant milestone in the officers’ careers.
As HCSO looks forward to the upcoming ceremony, the department remains focused on supporting its team in creating and sustaining a culture of excellence.
HCSO Participates in IDD Summit
On September 4, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office participated in the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Summit to discuss how best to accommodate individuals with special needs in our care. The summit brought together experts, advocates, and law enforcement to discuss the best practices for interacting with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez highlighted the significance of this event, stating, “Raising awareness about individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is incredibly important. These individuals may be involved in the criminal justice system without the necessary community-based services. So, I’m grateful to be a part of this conversation.”
The HCSO is dedicated to enhancing our methods for identifying and assisting individuals with IDD. We ensure that our facilities have mental health units with trained professionals who can handle these cases compassionately. Sheriff Gonzalez stressed the importance of early identification of individuals with IDD and recognized that many cases go unreported in the criminal justice system due to missed diagnoses in childhood.
During the summit, we had the opportunity to work together with other organizations, strengthening partnerships to improve services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Sheriff Gonzalez emphasized our unwavering commitment to addressing the needs of individuals with IDD. He stated, “We are dedicated to collaborating, listening, and finding solutions to ensure they are treated with the care and dignity they deserve.”
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office looks forward to future events such as the IDD Summit, where we can continue to learn, share, and work together to build a safer, more inclusive community for all.
HCSO In the News
Hoodline:Governor Abbott Honors Heroes at 2024 Star of Texas Awards in AustinIn a solemn yet resolute commemoration, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, alongside First Lady Cecilia Abbott, marked a profound moment at the 2024 Star of Texas Awards in Austin, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of the state’s peace officers, firefighters, and first responders, according to the governor’s official website.”Today, we mark another anniversary of September 11, 2001,” Governor Abbott heralded, underscoring the weight of sacrifice inherent in the first responder’s duty, “To serve as a first responder is to answer a higher calling.”
UH:Students get informed at Behind the Badge eventThe annual Behind the Badge event at the University of Houston, now in its fourth year, provided 174 students, faculty, and staff an opportunity to meet, converse, question, and learn about the local law enforcement agencies and university departments supporting safety on campus.In addition to UHPD, law enforcement agencies such as METRO Police, Harris County Sheriff’s Office Vehicular Crimes Division, and Harris County Precinct 6 were present.
Houston Public Media:The Woodlands Township directors’ budget for Houston area’s first Safe Haven baby boxIn the midst of what’s been referred to as an epidemic in abandoned baby cases around Houston this year, directors from The Woodlands Township are discussing plans to install the region’s first baby box.Safe Haven Baby Boxes give mothers a safe option to legally surrender their infant anonymously. There are only two in the state of Texas. The first was created in Abilene, and another was placed at a Lubbock fire station just last month.
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.
“Deputy Rhonda Price treated me with courtesy and respect. This officer introduced herself and told me why I was pulled over. She made it easy for me to understand. She values transparency and clear communication,” said a Harris County resident. “Additionally, her pleasant smile helped put me at ease during what can be a stressful situation. I want to say thank you for your service to the community.”
Deputy Rhonda Price began her law enforcement career with our agency as a Detention Officer in 2015 and became a deputy in 2022. She currently serves in HCSO District Two’s Traffic Unit in north Harris County.
On Thursday, September 12, 2024, we proudly recognized National Police Woman Day.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office celebrated the incredible women in law enforcement who serve with courage, dedication, and professionalism. Their contributions are invaluable, and their commitment to keeping our communities safe continues to inspire us all.
We thank every policewoman for breaking barriers and leading the way with strength and resilience. Your service and sacrifice did not go unnoticed!
September is National Child Passenger Safety Month!
Join us at several car seat events this month to learn about proper car seat harnessing, installation, and more from a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician.
Keeping our kids safe on the road is a top priority!
A limited number of new car seats are available. To attend, you must make an appointment — visit freeseatcheck.as.me.
Our Harris County Sheriff’s Office teammates proudly participated in the Tunnel to Towers 5K Walk to honor the heroes of 9/11 and support the incredible work of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
We walk to remember the bravery and sacrifices of our first responders and continue supporting those in need. We stand strong as a community, united in gratitude and purpose.
Thank you to everyone who joined and supported this meaningful event!
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are excited to join our community for the National Night Out on October 1, 2024! This special evening is about celebrating this tradition’s true meaning—fostering a strong, united community.
We ask our community to come together and participate in building safer communities by:
Turning on their porch lights as a symbol of solidarity.
Attending local National Night Out events organized by neighborhood associations, community organizations, and local law enforcement.
Engaging with law enforcement and neighbors to foster stronger, safer communities through communication and partnerships.
What HCSO Will Be Doing:
Hosting and attending events in various neighborhoods to engage with residents and show support.
Providing safety tips and sharing crime prevention strategies with the community.
Building positive relationships with the public by encouraging open dialogue between officers and residents, enhancing trust and cooperation.
Participating in activities such as block parties, cookouts, parades, and meet-and-greets to make the event fun and engaging for families and individuals.
We can’t wait to connect with you, share in the festivities, and continue building the bonds that make our neighborhoods safe and vibrant.
September is National Preparedness Month. Hurricane Season lasts until November 30. Disasters happen; the time to prepare is now! Visit hurricanes.gov/prepare for more details.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office teammates attended the Jail Management Conference hosted by the Texas Jail Association in Galveston, Texas.
Through a variety of workshops and discussions, our team had the opportunity to learn from and engage with industry leaders on best practices in jail management. Continuous learning and staying informed about the latest advancements ensure we provide the highest level of care and security within our facilities.
We are also proud to recognize Major Anderson, who has served as a dedicated member of the Texas Jail Association Board and has been the organization’s Secretary for the past four years. Thank you for your leadership and commitment to advancing the profession!
Happy Trails: HCSO Retirees
To all retirees, we thank you for your years of service to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Congratulations on your retirement, and best of luck on the next chapter in your life.
Blue Chip Program
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is proud to partner with the Texas Blue Chip program, which offers free clinical resources to officers. These services, including both counseling and telehealth visits, are available at no cost to officers. The program allows officers to bypass traditional channels like employee assistance programs (EAP), wellness programs, peer networks, or insurance referrals.
Confidential and Anonymous
A major benefit of the Texas Blue Chip program is its commitment to confidentiality. The process is completely anonymous, even during reimbursement. Providers never receive identifying information such as an officer’s name, ensuring complete privacy for those seeking support.
How to Access Services
Officers can easily take advantage of the Texas Blue Chip program with the following steps:
Take a Blue Chip and scan the QR code on the back to connect with a clinician on the list.
Each Blue-Chip covers one session, with costs reimbursed to the provider.
You may take more than one chip, either as a reminder for yourself or to pass along to colleagues in need, similar to the tradition of challenge coins.
Your visit remains completely confidential and anonymous—no details are shared with your department or the reimbursement organization.
The Blue Chip is given to the clinician, who uses it to invoice the Meadows Institute for the services provided.
If you would like a chip or know someone who could benefit from one, please reach out to Dr. Thomas McNeese at 281-387-0333 or via email at Thomas.McNeese@Sheriff.hctx.net.
By partnering with the Texas Blue Chip program, HCSO is ensuring that officers have easy, anonymous access to the help they need. Remember, support is always just a chip away.
World Suicide Prevention Day, observed on September 10, was a time for us to reflect on the importance of mental health and well-being. It reminded us of the critical resources and support available to our HCSO family and reinforced our commitment to supporting one another and promoting mental health within our agency.
Please review the attached Behavioral Health & Wellness Training Bulletin, which provided valuable information on recognizing warning signs, recommended actions, and available resources.
Remember, your mental health is vital to being effective and resilient in both your professional and personal lives. I encourage everyone to use these resources whenever needed, not only on Suicide Prevention Day but throughout the year.
Thank you for your continued dedication and service. Together, we are creating a healthier and more resilient HCSO family.
