Author: HCMUD 150

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

The Houston Livestock and Rodeo Show celebrates our region’s rich heritage and showcases our community’s unity and spirit. Our participation underscores our commitment to engaging with the public and strengthening bonds with our fellow Houstonians.

On March 1, HCSO will again showcase our exceptional K9 Unit as we compete in the Hard Dog, Fast Dog competition. This event aims to determine which dog can bite the hardest and run the fastest. With our track record of success in past competitions, we anticipate another impressive showing from our talented K9s.

As the rodeo festivities continue, mark your calendars for March 4, First Responders Day. On this day, first responders who present their badges will receive free admission to the rodeo, along with up to four family members. We appreciate the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for hosting First Responders Day and recognizing the invaluable contributions of the various safety providers, including firefighters, EMS, and other emergency services agencies in the Houston Area.

HCSO deputies will be on-site throughout the rodeo, assisting with operations and ensuring the safety of all attendees. Their dedication and professionalism exemplify the values of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and we’re proud to have them represent us at the Houston Rodeo.

HCSO Celebrates Women’s History Month

As we enter Women’s History Month, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly acknowledges the valuable contributions of women within our ranks. From leadership and executive roles to every corner of our organization, women play a vital role in keeping our communities safe and our operations running smoothly. Despite the male-dominated nature of law enforcement, we recognize the unique perspective and compassion that female representation brings to public safety.

Last year, HCSO opened the historic Women’s Empowerment Center (WEC). As we celebrate its first anniversary, we reflect on the center’s mission to provide programs and resources to empower women to learn new skills and rebuild their lives. Our goal for the WEC is simple: to ensure that when these women return to their communities, they are better equipped than when they entered our care.

One of the hallmarks of our commitment to women’s advancement is our involvement with the 30X30 Initiative, which sets a goal to achieve 30% representation of women within our organization by the year 2030. We are pleased to report that we are on track to meet this objective, thanks to proactive recruitment efforts, retention strategies, and a commitment to promoting gender diversity at all levels of our agency.

In addition to recruitment efforts, we offer comprehensive benefits packages, including healthcare benefits, parental leave, and employee assistance programs, ensuring that our teammates have the support they need to thrive professionally and personally.

HCSO Celebrates the First Anniversary of the Women’s Empowerment Center

HCSO In The News

KHOU 11: Child who was missing from west Harris County found safe, HCSO says

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A 10-year-old boy who went missing in west Harris County on Tuesday was found safe Wednesday morning, according to the sheriff’s office

Hoodline: HCSO Launches Crime-Free Multi-Housing Program to Curb High Crime Rates in Cypress Station

In an effort to combat persistently high crime rates in Cypress Station, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) has unveiled the Crime-Free Multi-Housing Program in the area and is looking to roll it out across unincorporated Harris County.

The Baytown Sun: Crosby ISD is Committed to Community Safety.

Superintendent Paula Patterson says: I had a chance to meet with Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and his command staff, as well as members of the Harris County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office and Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner’s Office.

The school district is committed to safety in our communities of Crosby and Barrett Station.

Hat Toss Day Celebration at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez proudly joined Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for the first-ever Hat Toss Day celebration!

HCSO Spring Break Camp

Join us at the HCSO & Dick’s Sporting Goods Spring Break Youth Camp. Free to attend, but you must register.

This two-day camp promises exciting sports activities, skill-building exercises, and a chance for your child to make new friends in a safe and supervised environment. Youth ages 13-17 are welcome to attend!

Dates: Monday, March 11 – Tuesday, March 12

Time: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Location: Dick’s Sporting Goods, 24600 Katy Fwy, Ste 1100A, Katy, TX 77494

Participants must arrange their transportation to and from the event.

Light snacks and refreshments will be available while supplies last. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy a friendly competition and connect with your community. We look forward to seeing you there!

How to Register: Secure your child’s spot today by clicking HERE or by scanning the QR code.

WATCH: HSCO Black History Month Spotlight

In honor of Black History Month, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are highlighting leaders in our agency.

Meet Major Earl Dean, who began his career with HCSO in January 1993 and has faithfully served the residents of Harris County for nearly 30 years.

In April 2023, Major Dean became the West Region Patrol Bureau/Neighborhood Policing Division Major. He has previously served as District 2 Patrol Captain, Detentions Specialized Housing Captain, Parks and District 4 Watch Commander/Lieutenant, and Community Engagement Supervisor.

Major Dean enjoys reading books, collecting fine arts/antiques, fishing, theatrical plays, and family trips.

Thank you for your service, Major Dean!

Meet Ashley Warren, a Licensed Professional Counselor with the HCSO Behavioral Health Division. She joined HCSO in December 2022.

She provides mental health services, education, and consultation to all within the department, their dependents, and retirees. Before joining our agency, she worked with the Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department (HCCSCD).

Thank you for your service, Ashley Warren!

HCSO Honors Deputy Rondald Bates

Sherrif Ed Gonzales joined family, friends and teammates to offer final honors to Deputy Rondald Bates and bid farewell to our brother in blue, Harris County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Ronald Bates. It was a solemn ceremony at Fallcreek Church filled with memories and respect for his service. Rest in peace, Deputy Bates. You will always be remembered.

Public Safety Partners Combat Wire Theft

HCSO Assistant Chief Tommy Diaz and Major Saul Suarez joined the Houston Police Department and Crime Stoppers to bring awareness to a recent spike in infrastructure vandalism, also known as copper wire theft.

HSCO Participates in March on Crime Press Conference.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined the Houston Police Department and other public safety partners at the 40th Annual “March on Crime” press conference.

March on Crime is HPD’s annual campaign to engage the public in the fight against crime.

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office celebrated the first anniversary of the Women’s Empowerment Center on February 15, 2024. This significant milestone allows us to reflect on the center’s impact since its opening. The center symbolizes hope, resilience, and transformation for countless women in our care.

Through tailored programs, counseling services, educational opportunities, and skill-building workshops, our goal is to equip women with the tools and resources they need to thrive beyond the walls of incarceration. Our programs offer support in mental health, spirituality, trauma, substance abuse, job training, and reentry.

In the last year, 217 residents have graduated from various programs, such as Apple Technology, IN2Work, Art Classes, Finance, G.E.D., and Health Class.

We have offered anger management classes, an Apple computer lab, G.E.D. courses provided by Houston Community College, and finance classes where residents learned money management skills.

Our residents have enjoyed various activities such as church services, game nights, spa days, and holiday celebrations, including Easter, Mother’s Day, Halloween, Christmas, and Navidad en el Barrio.

Navidad en el Barrio is a non-profit organization that provides Christmas gifts for children whose mothers are incarcerated in the Women’s Empowerment Center. Last year, 40 children and sixteen residents were granted the wish to spend time with their children while they opened gifts through this effort.

Plans are underway to introduce online training courses in Nail Tech, Solar Energy, Construction, Medical Assistance, Parenting, and more. Our goals for 2024 are to keep growing the residents’ courses and training, and we hope to introduce online training options as well.

On this anniversary, we take a moment to reflect, express our gratitude, and celebrate. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who have contributed to the success of the Women’s Empowerment Center – our dedicated staff, community partners, volunteers, and most importantly, the courageous women who have embarked on their journey of empowerment.

Watch: The Women’s Empowerment Center First Anniversary Ceremony

HCSO Launches Hustle 2.0

I am excited to announce the relaunch of our transformative program, Hustle 2.0, here at the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

This program is designed to make a significant impact on reducing crime, violence, and recidivism by empowering incarcerated individuals with the motivation and skills they need to transform their lives.

On February 15, representatives from Hustle 2.0 joined us to celebrate the first anniversary of the Women’s Empowerment Center. Their presence and support at this event underscore our commitment to empowering individuals and transforming lives.

The C.E.O. and Founder, Cat Jackson, spoke briefly at the H.C.S.O. Women’s Empowerment Center Anniversary celebration. During her speech, she highlighted that their book was written in a story-like fashion with lots of humor. She emphasized that the book’s goal is to capture the interest of even those in program-resistant populations.

Hustle 2.0 utilizes a proprietary curriculum that addresses criminogenic needs through evidence-based, trauma-informed concepts. By incorporating testimonials, case studies, art, and humor contributed by individuals with incarceration experience, we aim to engage even the most program-resistant and high-risk populations within our correctional facilities.

Their vision to transform correctional facilities from places of pain and punishment into houses of healing and hope is something we stand for here at HCSO. We are incredibly excited for this step in our journey towards a better future for those who are incarcerated.

HCSO In The News

CW39: 75th Annual Pony Express kicked off this weekend at NRG Park

HOUSTON (CW39) – The 75th Annual Pony Express kicked off this weekend at NRG Park — where mounted patrol from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office began the journey to Austin, where they hand deliver 2024 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo invitations at the Texas State Capitol.

Fox 26: Houston crash: Off-duty Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputy dies after crashing in downtown Houston

HOUSTON – An off-duty deputy, 62-year-old Ronald Bates, was identified as the victim of Saturday’s fatal crash in Downtown Houston by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

The Harris County Sheriff, Ed Gonzalez, shared his thoughts on his official Twitter account, giving his condolences to the family and friends of Bates.

HCSO Teammate of the Week

Harris County Sheriff’s Office Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and 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.

“I am a practicing attorney in and around Houston, with 30 years of experience. However, my experience did not count when navigating the court system with a mental health client. I want to take the time to thank Gary Mustiful for assisting me and my client through the maze of the mental health program. The program is much needed in today’s society,” said a Harris County resident.

“However, getting your client into the program can be overwhelming and challenging. I saw Gary Mustiful in court one day and remembered he had given me his card. That card was a valuable asset. I called Gary, and he immediately took the time to explain the program and the process. I wanted his superiors to know what a wonderful and valuable employee they have working in the Mental Health Program. Gary has made one young man’s life better.”

Gary Mustiful is a Jail Population Analyst for Detentions Performance & Efficiency and joined HCSO last year. His professional background includes over 20 years of work experience as a Court Administrator in Harris County. Additionally, he holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Management from Texas State University.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed: Sign Up for Smart911 Today!

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. Smart911 is a valuable tool that enhances emergency preparedness and response.

Smart911 allows you to create a Safety Profile for your household, providing vital information that 911 operators and first responders can access during emergencies.

By signing up for Smart911, you can ensure that responders have the information they need to assist you quickly and effectively in times of crisis.

Signing up for Smart911 is easy and free. Visit tinyurl.com/25sbb6yt or text us at 67283. Your information will only be shared with 911 operators and first responders in the event of an emergency, ensuring your privacy and security.

Take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Sign up for Smart911 today to help keep our community safe and informed.

Annual HCSO Foundation Board Meeting

This week, we were honored to attend the Annual HCSO Texas Foundation Board Meeting. In 2023, they funded:

$100k for ballistic windshields
$25k seed money for the LightsOn! Program
5k for Annual Children’s Toy Drive

Thank you for supporting Law Enforcement!

Detention Officer Graduation Ceremony

Congratulations to our new Detention Officers on their graduation! We are proud of your hard work and dedication. Thank you for your commitment to serving and protecting.

HCSO Celebrates Valentine’s Day with Precinct 1 Seniors

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office had a wonderful time at the HCSO Valentine’s Day Event for the Precinct 1 Community Centers Seniors. In collaboration with Harris County Precinct 1, we organized the party to honor our seniors. HCSO teammates shared valuable resources with over 200 elderly residents and enjoyed spending time with our community!

HCSO vs. Starbucks Family Feud

Join us at the HCSO vs. Starbucks Family Feud Community Event!

Date: Friday, February 16, 2024

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: BakerRipley Pasadena, 720 Fairmont Pkwy, Pasadena, TX 77504

Come and join us for a fun-filled evening at the HCSO vs. Starbucks Family Feud Community Event! This exciting event will take place on Friday, February 16, at BakerRipley Pasadena starting at 6:00 PM. It’s a free event, so bring your friends and family along to cheer on your favorite team!

Light snacks and refreshments will be available while supplies last. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy a friendly competition and connect with your community. We look forward to seeing you there!

WATCH: HSCO Black History Month Spotlight

In honor of Black History Month, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are highlighting leaders in our agency.

Meet Sgt. Charles Beaudion. He started as a detention officer with HCSO in 2004 and became a deputy in 2007. He’s been an investigator for Backgrounds & Recruiting. He has worked in Special Investigations as an undercover deputy for Vice and worked in Internal Affairs before being promoted to Sergeant in June 2020.

Thank you for your service, Sgt. Beaudion!

Meet Captain Marcus A. Kinnard-Bing. He joined HCSO 32 and a half years ago. He currently serves as the Vehicular Crimes Division Commander.

He has served in the Harris County Jail and also in Patrol as a sergeant, lieutenant, and captain. He has also been a major, leading the Patrol and Homeland Security bureaus.

Thank you for your service, Captain Kinnard-Bing!

HCSO Celebrates the Lunar New Year

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly acknowledges and celebrates the Lunar New Year with a vibrant display of the traditional dragon dance. This celebration of heritage promotes unity as we welcome the new year together. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Asian American Peace Officer Association for organizing this memorable event, and a special appreciation to Lee’s Golden Dragon for the amazing dragon dance performance.

HCSO Welcomes the New BPOC Class

On Monday, February 12, 2024, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office welcomed 72 cadets for our Basic Peace Officer Course! Over the next nine months, these men and women will be tested, mentally and physically, to earn the right to wear the patch “The Pride of Texas.”

For the first time ever, HCSO will have two BPOC classes simultaneously. The next BPOC class starts March 11, 2024, and we anticipate having 60 cadets enroll. We wish all cadets the best during their time in the academy!

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office recently recognized and congratulated 43 exceptional colleagues who displayed outstanding commitment, skills, and leadership, resulting in well-deserved promotions on January 25, 2024, at the Second Baptist Church – Woodway Campus.

We are proud to have such remarkable teammates who embody the essence of what makes our Sheriff’s Office exceptional. The ceremony acknowledged years of hard work and dedication to the values the Harris County Sheriff’s Office upholds.

Each team member promoted has demonstrated exceptional qualities in their respective roles, whether in the field, leadership positions, or supporting roles. Their contributions have had a lasting impact on our agency.

Two teammates were recently promoted to the new rank of detention captain within the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. This is a significant milestone for our organization, representing our dedication to innovation and leadership. These two team members have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, and their promotion to this rank is a historic moment for our agency. They are the first to achieve this rank within our organization, and their names will forever be etched in our history.

The promoted individuals’ exceptional leadership qualities will undoubtedly contribute to our agency’s continued success. Leadership is not just about a title; it’s about influence, integrity, and the ability to inspire others.

As our colleagues step into their new roles, we have confidence in their ability to continue exemplifying the high standards and values that define our agency. Together, we are an unbreakable force – a strong team against adversity.

Our agency’s success results from our collective teamwork and collaboration, and the promotions we celebrate reflect that. We are stronger together.

Congratulations to our newly promoted leaders! Your hard work, dedication, and leadership have led you to this moment, and I am confident you will continue to make us proud.

Watch: B1-2023 Basic Peace Officer Course Graduation Ceremony

HCSO Celebrates Black History Month

In celebration of Black History Month, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office is honoring the people who paved the way for us and made sacrifices to create the opportunities we enjoy today.

As the Sheriff of Harris County, I am dedicated to promoting an understanding and appreciation of our community’s diverse tapestry. This month, we commemorate and celebrate a community whose resilience, strength, and indomitable spirit have played an integral role in shaping our nation.

In Harris County, we understand the significance of diversity in our law enforcement initiatives. We are committed to establishing trust and promoting positive connections with all members of our community. As this month unfolds, let us be reminded of the perpetual requirement for dialogue, comprehension, and cooperation to guarantee the safety and welfare of every African American resident in our county.

With the help of education and self-reflection, we can enhance our comprehension of the day-to-day struggles that our Black community members go through, which impact various aspects of their lives.

Acknowledging the past fosters dialogue toward collective action for a future where every community member can thrive without race-based impediments.

Celebrating Black History Month is an opportunity to honor Black individuals’ achievements, contributions, and history. It’s a chance for reflection, education, and collective action towards a more inclusive future.

In honor of Black History Month, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are highlighting leaders in our agency.

Meet Major Latrina Kingsbury, who leads the Justice Management Bureau. She’s been with HCSO for 31 years, 20 of those years in a supervisory role.

In the 31 years she has worked with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Major Kingsbury has launched, led, and managed several projects. Her proudest achievement is her family. Thank you for your service, Major Kingsbury!

HCSO In The News

FOX26: Human sex trafficking awareness month

ICYMI: January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. HCSO Lt. Santee & Captain Ecke joined the Isiah Factor Uncensored show & discussed how groomers strategically target victims.

ABC13: Nearly $500K in high-end vehicles found when Harris Co. investigators moved in on alleged chop shop

A 25-year-old man was arrested on Friday connected to a suspected “chop shop” where authorities found a $170,000 Corvette, records state.

The bust was a multi-agency operation involving the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and Homeland Security Investigations. HCSO said nearly $500,000 in cars were recovered, including Dodge Chargers, a Cadillac Escalade, and a $170,000 Corvette.

My Neighborhood News: Harris County Sheriff’s Office Junior Mounted Posse Prepares for 72nd Annual HLSR Relay Ride

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office Junior Mounted Posse is all saddled up and ready to ride in the 72nd annual Relay Ride. This historic event, which has been a part of the fabric of our community for over seven decades, will once again deliver the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo proclamations to our neighbors in surrounding counties.

HCSO Teammate of the Week

Harris County Sheriff’s Office Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and 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.

“On January 20, Deputy Berenice Suarez was compassionate to a resident going through a tough time. She took the lady to a warming center so she could be comfortable and safe,” said a Harris County resident. “The attitude and professionalism Deputy B. Suarez displayed were nothing short of what a law enforcement deputy should attempt to exhibit on a daily basis.”

Deputy Suarez began her law enforcement career with HCSO in January 2018 as a Detention Officer. She became a deputy in July 2023 and works as a patrol deputy.

Congratulations to our Employees of the Quarter

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are celebrating the teammates of the Quarter. We recognize Record Specialist Maria Moreno and Detention Office

r Ashley O’Hara for their exemplary service and devotion to duty. Beyond their unwavering dedication to the job, they are team players with a positive attitude. Congratulations!

Employees of the Quarter 1200 Specialized Housing: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are celebrating the teammates of the Quarter. We recognize Detention Officer Brian Long and Sergeant Brice Owens for their outstanding service and dedication to duty. Congratulations!

HCSO Acknowledged by the Police Executive Research Forum

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has been acknowledged by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) for implementing and standardizing Integrated Communication, Assessment, and Tactics (ICAT) training. HCSO is the nation’s first agency to implement ICAT training for its detention staff.

In January 2021, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO started an agency-wide training in ICAT to have a positive impact when we respond to mental health calls. Thanks to PERF for the recognition! Click here to read the publication.

Help Us Find the Murder of Elizabeth Barraza

On Friday, January 25, 2019, just before 7 a.m., Harris County Constable’s Office Pct. 4 deputies were dispatched to a shots fired call at 8623 Cedar Walk Drive in north Harris County. Deputies reported that Liz Barraza, age 29, was found shot several times as she stood in her driveway preparing for a garage sale. She was taken to a hospital, where she died.

The suspect drove a black or dark-colored Nissan Frontier Pro 4X Crew Cab (4-door) truck. The suspect’s gender was not determined and could be male or female. No motive in the murder has been identified, and it does not appear to be robbery-motivated.

Someone out there knows who killed Elizabeth Barraza. We ask you to do the right thing. If you know something, please come forward and assist.

A cash reward of up to $50,000 is available for the person who provides information that leads to an arrest. Please call the HCSO Homicide Unit at 713-274-9100 or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS(8477).

Join HCSO for Lemonade With a Cop

Join us on February 7, 2024, for Lemonade with a Cop at the Raising Cane’s located at 7531 Westheimer Rd. Houston, TX 77063 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.! Stop by to learn more about the programs that the Harris County Sheriff’s Office has to offer and talk with deputies onsite over some delicious Cane’s Lemonade! We hope to see you there!