Author: HCMUD 150

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Building Safer Roads for Everyone

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

August is National Traffic Awareness Month, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office remains deeply committed to protecting our roadways—especially as thousands of students return to the classroom.

This August, we launched targeted Roadway Safety and Back-to-School Initiatives to safeguard children, parents, and all motorists. Our goal is simple: to make sure every student arrives at school safely and returns home to their families at the end of the day.

Supporting Schools and Families

Across our districts, deputies are working closely with local school communities to keep neighborhoods safe. These efforts began as students returned to class and will continue through the first weeks of the new school year.

Our actions include:

  • Increased patrols during school drop-off and pick-up to deter speeding and unsafe driving.
  • Focused traffic enforcement in school zones for violations like speeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield.
  • Daytime patrols for visibility and reassurance around campuses.
  • Nighttime checks to address suspicious activity near schools.
  • Targeted enforcement along busy corridors like Woodland Hills and Wilson Road.
  • Documented patrol visits to ensure consistent safety coverage.

Why It Matters

Last year, HCSO investigated 160 fatal crashes. This year, we are already nearing 100. The leading causes—speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving—remain preventable.

  • Speeding contributed to about 1 in 4 traffic fatalities.
  • Distracted driving was a factor in another 1 in 4.
  • Impaired driving caused nearly 1 in 3 traffic deaths across Texas.

Each statistic represents a family forever changed. That’s why we ask every driver to slow down, buckle up, and stay focused. Protecting lives begins with the small decisions we each make every day.

Looking Ahead – Labor Day & Beyond

As the Labor Day holiday approaches, we remind everyone that driving while intoxicated is 100% preventable. Please plan ahead—use a rideshare, call a friend, or designate a sober driver. Our deputies, alongside neighboring agencies, will be out conducting enforcement operations to keep impaired drivers off the road.

A Shared Responsibility

Safety is not just a rule—it’s a responsibility we all share. By working together, we can ensure that this school year, and the rest of 2025, is safe for every student, family, and driver in Harris County.

Let’s continue to look out for each other, because every safe arrival is a victory for our community.

WATCH: HCSO Back-to-School Traffic Safety Initiative

HCSO In the News

NBC News: Houston Crime Stoppers determined to help Texas family get justice for the 2019 shooting of Liz Barraza; up to $50,000 reward offered

If you go to WhoKilledLizBarraza.com, you’ll see a big tracker at the top of the page: 2,396 days waiting for justice.

That’s how long it’s been since 29-year-old Elizabeth “Liz” Barraza was gunned down in her driveway. On the morning of Friday, January 25, 2019, she was setting up a garage sale in the driveway of her home in the 8600 block of Cedar Walk in Tomball, Texas.

FOX26: Houston crime: Youth pole vault team’s truck, $50K in equipment stolen

HOUSTON – A group of young athletes from Illinois traveled to Houston to compete in the AAU Junior Olympics, bringing home two national championships and several medals — only to have their coach’s truck and more than $50,000 worth of equipment stolen before they could return home.

KHOU11: Unlicensed chiropractor charged with sexually assaulting patient; HCSO worried there may be other victims

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — An unlicensed chiropractor in Katy has been arrested on sexual assault charges, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

A patient told investigators that Joshua Aaron Gomez, 43, assaulted her in December 2023 at One Life Chiropractor on Fry Road.

The woman said she paid Gomez in advance for treatment of a very painful misaligned pubic area related to childbirth.

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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.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Joshua Cuellar as our Teammate of the Week. His dedication, professionalism, and connection with the community exemplify the best of public service.

A resident recently shared a heartfelt moment:

“Shout out to Deputy Joshua Cuellar, who took a break from patrolling Lakewood Crossing on the evening of Sunday, June 8th, to shoot some hoops with my son and his friends at his high school graduation party!”

Deputy Cuellar began his journey with HCSO in February 2024, joining the Basic Peace Officer Academy. His law enforcement career began in 2019, following his graduation from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Charleston, SC. While serving in the U.S. Coast Guard as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer, he developed a passion for public safety. Upon transitioning from active duty, he joined HCSO to continue that mission and further his law enforcement career. He currently serves in District 5 Patrol in north Harris County.

Thank you, Deputy Cuellar, for going above and beyond. Your service makes a lasting impact!

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy R. Burleigh-Pickens for his professionalism, dedication, and commitment to serving our community.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“Deputy R. Burleigh-Pickens stopped me for a minor traffic violation. He was professional and courteous in conducting his duties. I am glad officers like him are patrolling our neighborhood and keeping us safe. Thanks to all of you for your efforts for our community! I know it can sometimes be a thankless job, but deputies like Mr. Burleigh-Pickens are a blessing. Thanks again.”

Deputy R. Burleigh-Pickens joined HCSO in April 2025 and has proudly served for the past four months. With more than three years of law enforcement experience, he began his career in July 2022 at the Harris County Constable’s Office Precinct 5 before transferring to HCSO to further his career. He currently serves on the night shift patrol in District 2 in north Harris County.

Thank you, Deputy Burleigh-Pickens, for your professionalism and commitment to keeping our community safe!

HCSO Cadets Participate in Sheriff’s Run

Our cadets participated in the Sheriff’s Run this morning, allowing me another opportunity to visit with them before graduation day. Looking forward to them serving our Harris County Sheriff’s Office family & Harris County community.

Visit hcsojobs.com to join our team!

A Special Day for a Special Young Man

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Back-to-School Safety: Protecting Our Students, Together

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

As students across Harris County return to school, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office joins parents, educators, and neighbors in making safety our top priority. Whether a child is walking, biking, riding the bus, or traveling by car, every student deserves to start and end their day safely.

We know the first weeks of school are exciting, but they can also be hectic. That’s why we’re asking every driver, parent, and community member to do their part in creating safer roads and school zones.

Back-to-School Safety Tips

  • Slow Down in School Zones: Follow posted speed limits and stay alert. Children can be unpredictable, especially near crosswalks. Avoid texting or using your phone — distracted driving is both dangerous and illegal in school zones.
  • Watch for School Buses: Stop when buses are loading or unloading children. Passing a stopped school bus with flashing lights isn’t just illegal — it can have tragic consequences.
  • Practice the Route Together: If your child walks or bikes to school, do a “practice run” with them. Point out crosswalks, safe places to go for help, and any potential hazards. Bright clothing or reflective gear helps them stay visible.
  • Buckle Up, Every Time: Whether it’s a quick drive or a longer commute, seatbelts save lives. Make sure younger children are in the right car seats for their age and size.
  • Stay Connected: Encourage your child to talk openly about anything that makes them feel unsafe — on campus, online, or along their commute.

From August 11 to August 22, HCSO deputies will step up traffic enforcement in school zones during the busiest times — one hour before and after school — to protect students during these critical weeks.

And with Texas Tax-Free Weekend (Aug. 8–11), families can save on school supplies, backpacks, and clothing under $100, both in stores and online — helping students start the year prepared.

As parents, neighbors, and public servants, we share the same goal: to give every child in Harris County a safe, positive start to the school year. Together, through awareness and cooperation, we can make that happen.

Stay safe, and have a wonderful school year.

WATCH: Back to School Safety Tips

HCSO In the News

Click2Houston: HCSO Dive Team assisting in recovery efforts for Hill Country Floods

The Dive Team for Harris County Sheriff’s Office is assisting with recovery efforts for the Hill Country Floods.

HCSO Deputy Javier Rojas is leading the operation in Kerrville, Texas, using Diver-Mounted Sonar gear to work towards underwater recoveries.

Click2Houston: Former corrections officer accused of targeting women on dating apps in Harris County serial rape investigation

HOUSTON – A man is now behind bars and facing multiple criminal charges following Harris County Sheriff’s Office serial rape investigation.

The suspect is 47-year-old Carl Earl Redfield, KPRC 2 first confirmed on Monday.

During Tuesday’s press conference, authorities also noted Redfield was previously a corrections officer in Indiana.

ABC13: $5K reward offered for information leading to arrest in hit-and-run that killed couple riding bikes

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — A reward is being offered for information after deputies say a couple riding bikes were killed in a hit-and-run earlier this month.

On July 1, just before 11 p.m., Daniel Perez and Krystal Calvillo were riding their bicycles along Veterans Memorial in northwest Harris County when Perez was hit by a car.

Click2Houston: Multi-agency task force arrests dozens in Houston-area jugging robberies

A regional task force has arrested multiple suspects in connection with a string of violent ‘jugging’ robberies, where victims were tailed from banks and attacked.

In a press conference Thursday morning in Conroe, Montgomery County Sheriff Wesley Doolittle joined leaders from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Houston Police Department, and the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office to share details of the joint operation.

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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.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Joshua Cuellar as our Teammate of the Week. His dedication, professionalism, and connection with the community exemplify the best of public service.

A resident recently shared a heartfelt moment:

“Shout out to Deputy Joshua Cuellar, who took a break from patrolling Lakewood Crossing on the evening of Sunday, June 8th, to shoot some hoops with my son and his friends at his high school graduation party!”

Deputy Cuellar began his journey with HCSO in February 2024, joining the Basic Peace Officer Academy. His law enforcement career began in 2019, following his graduation from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Charleston, SC. While serving in the U.S. Coast Guard as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer, he developed a passion for public safety. Upon transitioning from active duty, he joined HCSO to continue that mission and further his law enforcement career. He currently serves in District 5 Patrol in north Harris County.

Thank you, Deputy Cuellar, for going above and beyond. Your service makes a lasting impact!

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Victor Castillo as our Teammate of the Week. With 16 years of distinguished service, Deputy Castillo continues to exemplify professionalism, courtesy, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Harris County.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“On July 1, 2025, I was stopped by Deputy V. Castillo on Jones Road. He was very professional, courteous, and sociable. This started my day off in a very positive way.”

Deputy Castillo joined HCSO in July 2009 and currently serves on day shift patrol in District 5. His years of experience and respectful approach are a reflection of the core values we uphold every day.

Thank you, Deputy Castillo, for your exceptional service and the meaningful impact you continue to make in our community.

Resolution for CIRT Team

Honoring Life-Saving Work

On June 26, 2025, HCSO Crisis Intervention Response Team (CIRT), alongside mental health clinicians from The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, spent over four hours talking with a woman in crisis who was armed and standing in the middle of I‑45 North.

Through patience, compassion, and teamwork, they built trust, de-escalated the situation, and ensured she surrendered safely. Most importantly, they connected her with mental health resources to begin her path to healing.

We thank the Harris County Commissioners Court for recognizing this extraordinary effort with a resolution honoring the deputies and clinicians who prevented a tragedy and gave someone a second chance at life.

HCSO: Sex Offender Watch

HCSO deputies are going door to door, verifying compliance, and making felony arrests when necessary — all to ensure that registered sex offenders in Harris County are following the law.

This work isn’t just enforcement — it’s a promise to our community: that safety, accountability, and justice come first.

HCSO Dive Team Takes Kerrville

The HCSO Dive Team has deployed to Kerrville, TX, to support ongoing recovery efforts after the devastating July 4th floods that tragically claimed lives.

Our team, alongside Texas Task Force 1 and hundreds of dedicated volunteers and first responders, is working tirelessly to bring closure to the impacted families. Deputy Javier Rojas is leading a vital search operation using Diver-Mounted Sonar technology as we continue targeted underwater sweeps.

Our hearts remain with the community of Kerr County during this unimaginable time.

Be Aware: Jugging Crimes on the Rise

Criminals are targeting individuals as they leave banks and businesses with cash. Victims are followed to stores, parking lots, or even their homes—then violently robbed.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez joined Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and regional law enforcement partners in a unified effort to address and prevent these crimes across our communities.

Starting September 1, House Bill 1902 goes into effect, allowing law enforcement to charge jugging as a felony.

Stay aware of your surroundings, and if you notice something suspicious, don’t hesitate to speak up. Report suspicious activity:

  • Emergencies: Call 911
  • Non-emergency: 713-221-6000

Stay alert. Stay safe.

HCSO Hosts Annual Tip-a-Cop

What an incredible turnout at Tip-A-Cop!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to support Special Olympics Texas and shared a meal with us. Our HCSO deputies had a blast serving our amazing community — all for a powerful cause.

Together, we’re creating a more inclusive, compassionate Harris County.

Protecting our Seniors

Extreme heat can be deadly — especially for our seniors.

Please take a moment to check on the older adults in your life. Make sure they have working A/C or fans, are staying hydrated, and know where to go if they need help cooling off.

Cooling centers are open across Harris County. Click HERE to find one near you.

Let’s protect those who once cared for us.

Water Safety Saves Lives

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office urge families to stay vigilant around water. Whether at the pool, lake, or beach — a few simple steps can prevent a tragedy.

Drowning can happen in just 20 seconds — especially for children ages 1 to 4, who are at the greatest risk.

Let’s protect each other and make every memory near the water a safe one.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – HCSO in Action: Delivering Flood Relief to Kerr County and Strengthening Summer Safety Across Harris County

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

On Tuesday, July 22, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly completed a major mission. We delivered five truckloads of critical flood relief supplies to support families in Kerr County following the devastating floods that struck the region over the July Fourth weekend.

This initiative was part of a week-long donation drive led by HCSO and powered by the incredible generosity of Harris County residents, the business community, and key partners including Walgreens Corporate and Streamline Shipping Solutions. Together, we mobilized more than 100 pallets of essential items including diapers, canned food, hygiene products and pet supplies for those most in need in Central Texas.

The trucks departed Houston early Tuesday morning and made their way to Tusculum Halle in Boerne, Texas, where local partners and volunteers welcomed them. Every person who contributed helped us answer the call to serve.

This mission wasn’t just about sending supplies—it was about sending hope. Harris County knows firsthand what it feels like to be hit by disaster. From Hurricane Harvey to floods, our community has walked the road of recovery before. The success of this initiative shows what can happen when public service and community hearts come together.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who donated, volunteered, or helped spread the word. Your support turned a call to action into real impact. Because of you, hundreds of families will receive the supplies they need to begin rebuilding.

This is what it truly means to be Texas Strong.
WATCH: HCSO Delivers Flood Relief to Kerr County

Stay Safe This Summer: Heat, Water, and Weather Preparedness Tips

As temperatures rise and summer activities ramp up, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office is reminding our community to stay vigilant and take extra precautions to protect loved ones, especially during the hottest months of the year.

Texas summers can be dangerously hot. A parked car’s interior can reach life-threatening temperatures within minutes, even with the windows cracked. That’s why we created a vehicle reminder tag to help you check your backseat every time. Download it here, print it, and hang it where you’ll see it. Every year, preventable tragedies occur when children or pets are unintentionally left behind in vehicles.

Heat Safety Reminders:

  • Always check the back seat before locking your car.

  • Keep your vehicle locked when unattended to prevent children from climbing.

  • Place a personal item (like a purse or phone) in the backseat as a visual reminder.

Summer also means more time spent near pools, lakes, and beaches—and with hurricane season underway, staying informed and prepared is more important than ever.

Water Safety Tips:

To better protect our community during severe weather events, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office is enhancing its emergency response capabilities.

Thanks to the support of local voters, HCSO will soon begin construction on the county’s first-ever Swift Water Rescue Facility—a specialized training center designed to simulate real-life flood conditions and prepare deputies for high-risk rescues.

Until now, our Emergency Management team had to travel outside the county for this type of training. With this new facility, we’re keeping that expertise right here at home—ensuring faster response times and stronger preparedness when disaster strikes.

Let’s all do our part to keep Harris County safe this summer. If you see a child or pet left in a vehicle, call 911 immediately. Take time to create a family emergency plan and sign up for local alerts. A little preparation today can save lives tomorrow.

WATCH: Water Safety Tips

HCSO In the News

KHOU11: Harris County Sheriff’s Office sends relief trucks to flood victims in Kerr County

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has trucks filled with much-needed relief supplies on the way to Kerr County after devastating floods impacted families.

KHOU11: 14-year-old Harris County girl hasn’t been seen since Sunday

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — Harris County Sheriff’s Office officials are hoping the public can help them find a teen who hasn’t been seen since last weekend.

They’re searching for 14-year-old Debra “Dawn” Moore. Dawn hasn’t been seen since Sunday around 11:20 a.m. in the 600 block of Clear Lake Road, in the Highlands area.

A description of her clothing wasn’t provided.

CW39: HCSO deploying supplies to Kerr County

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KIAH) – Tuesday morning, CW39’s Sharron Melton talked LIVE with Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez about a deployment of supplies going to Kerry County this morning. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is sending five trucks of relief supplies to Kerr County to support families impacted by the July Fourth devastating floods.

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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.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Joshua Cuellar as our Teammate of the Week. His dedication, professionalism, and connection with the community exemplify the best of public service.

A resident recently shared a heartfelt moment:

“Shout out to Deputy Joshua Cuellar, who took a break from patrolling Lakewood Crossing on the evening of Sunday, June 8th, to shoot some hoops with my son and his friends at his high school graduation party!”

Deputy Cuellar began his journey with HCSO in February 2024, joining the Basic Peace Officer Academy. His law enforcement career began in 2019, following his graduation from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Charleston, SC. While serving in the U.S. Coast Guard as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer, he developed a passion for public safety. Upon transitioning from active duty, he joined HCSO to continue that mission and further his law enforcement career. He currently serves in District 5 Patrol in north Harris County.

Thank you, Deputy Cuellar, for going above and beyond. Your service makes a lasting impact!

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Alexander Kampf as our Teammate of the Week. His professionalism, empathy, and commitment represent the best of public service.

A Harris County resident recently shared a powerful message of gratitude:

“Deputy Kampf pulled me over. I was frustrated, not because of the stop, but due to personal stress. Deputy Kampf was incredibly patient and took the time to explain why the area was being monitored due to the frequency of crashes. I apologized for my frustration, especially in front of my family, and appreciated that he stayed calm, kind, and respectful. It was a learning moment for me on many levels. Thank you, Deputy Kampf, for helping me pause, reflect, and feel supported. You’re making a difference in our community.”

Deputy Kampf has served as a peace officer for nearly nine years and joined HCSO in September 2022. Since then, he has exemplified our agency’s core values in every interaction.

Thank you, Deputy Kampf, for your compassion and service. Your impact extends far beyond the badge.

Welcome to HCSO!

Congratulations to our newly graduated Detention Officers! We are proud of your hard work and dedication to serving and protecting.

If you are looking for a rewarding career, join our team! Visit HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250 to apply today!

Back to School Giveaway

The HCSO PAL team is excited to help our youth get ready for the new school year! Join us for our Back-to-School Giveaway happening on:

July 31, 2025
9 AM – 11 AM
420 South Main St., Highlands, TX 77562

We’ll be handing out school supplies to the first 200 youth — while supplies last, so come early! Youth must be present to receive items.

This event is proudly brought to you by Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO PAL! We are grateful for our sponsors at the BEAR! Let’s send our students back to school prepared and confident!

HCSO Joins Procession for Shiloh Wilson

Members of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office were honored to join the multi-agency procession for Shiloh Wilson, coordinated by our partners at the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office. The show of community support was incredible. Shiloh was in the Hill Country for a rodeo with his parents, who also died in the devastating floods. May the Lord comfort every broken heart.

Join Us for National Night Out 2025

Registration is now open for this year’s National Night Out — happening Tuesday, October 7, 2025! Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO are excited to connect with neighborhoods across Harris County for an evening of unity, safety, and community spirit.

If your neighborhood is hosting an event, register HERE. For more information, call 346-286-3125.

The registration deadline is August 29, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Operation Slow Down

Every crash statistic has a heartbreaking story behind it. Let’s work together to change the numbers. Drive slower. Drive safer.

Your choices behind the wheel could save a life.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Preventing Auto Theft, Honoring Our Heroes

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Auto theft remains a serious issue in Texas, especially during the summer months. July is Watch Your Car Month, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office urges all residents to take proactive steps to protect their vehicles and valuables.

Thousands of vehicles are stolen each year, often from driveways, gas stations, and parking lots. Many of these incidents are crimes of opportunity, taking just seconds when vehicles are left unlocked or running.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Vehicle:

  • Park in well-lit, high-traffic areas with surveillance.

  • Always lock your doors and use a steering wheel lock.

  • Never leave your keys or fobs in the vehicle.

  • Consider installing a GPS tracker for easier recovery.

Behind the Badge: The Fight Against Auto Theft

Auto theft today isn’t about hot-wiring—it’s high-tech. Thieves now clone digital keys in minutes using advanced software, sometimes never even breaking a window.

HCSO has dedicated proactive and reactive teams to tackle this evolving threat. A new video, “The Fight Against Auto Theft”, offers an inside look at our enforcement efforts, including:

  • A dirt bike was stolen from a local driveway, tracked, and recovered through Facebook Marketplace.

  • A stolen Lamborghini Huracán that led to the takedown of a six-person VIN-swapping ring.

  • A suspect linked to both retail theft and cash “jugging,” now in custody.

Auto theft impacts more than just property—it threatens livelihoods and public safety. Let’s work together this summer, and beyond, to safeguard our vehicles and protect our community.

If you see something suspicious, say something.

WATCH: The Fight Against Auto Theft

Honoring Our Heroes

Remembering Detective John Coddou III

On July 3, 2025, the Windstone Colony community, HCSO leadership, and the family of Detective John Coddou III came together for a moving dedication ceremony. Hosted by MUD #284 and the Windstone Colony HOA, the event celebrated the grand opening of a new administration building and District IV Satellite Office — now officially named in memory of Detective Coddou.

Detective Coddou lost his life in the line of duty in April 2024. He was remembered for his dedication, service, and unwavering connection to the community he served. Two commemorative plaques—one outside and one inside the building—stand as lasting tributes to his legacy.

Chief Deputy Thomas Diaz and Kathleen Coddou, Detective Coddou’s wife, shared heartfelt remarks, expressing gratitude to the community for this honor. The new District IV Satellite Office will continue the values he championed — service, safety, and connection.

In Loving Memory of Detective Fernando Esqueda:

As we honor Detective Coddou, we also remember Detective Fernando Esqueda, who made the ultimate sacrifice on July 11, 2024.

Detective Esqueda was a proud five-year veteran of HCSO, serving with courage and integrity in the Violent Persons Warrant Task Force. His commitment to public safety earned him the deep respect of his colleagues and the community alike.

His legacy lives on in the continued service of the HCSO family.

Gone, but never forgotten.

HCSO In the News

Click2Houston: ‘I gave her everything I had’: Harris County crisis negotiator reflects on emotional I-45 standoff

HOUSTON – Sergeant Aaron Brown has talked people down from rooftops, bridges and barricades. But what happened last week on I-45 near Cypresswood Drive was unlike anything he’s experienced.

A 64-year-old woman, armed with a handgun, sat alone in a folding chair in the middle of the freeway, bringing traffic to a standstill for nearly five hours.

FOX26: HCSO Dive Team detail flood rescue program

It’s been a year since Hurricane Beryl hit Southeast Texas and causes severe damage to the Houston-area. HCSO’s Captain David Jasper and the dive team recounts rescues and their flood rescue program.

Click2Houston: What are the laws around stepping in if you find a child locked in a hot car?

HOUSTON – The most recent hot car death of a 9-year-old girl on Tuesday in our area is prompting local law enforcement officials to spread awareness about the importance of taking action should you happen to see a child in an unattended vehicle.

“It’s something that happens unfortunately, but it’s also preventable,” said Deputy Rafael Pantoja with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

ABC13: WANTED: $5K reward for information that leads to arrest of driver who hit and killed 12-year-old riding bike

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — Crime Stoppers announced a new reward to find the driver who hit and killed a 12-year-old boy before taking off last month.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office said on June 10, at about 8:40 p.m., Zachariah Benjamin was riding his bicycle on a sidewalk in northeast Harris County when a charging dog caused him to fall onto the roadway.

Deputies said that’s when an oncoming car hit Zachariah on Suburban Road, near East Mount Houston, and kept going. Zachariah died from his injuries a short time later.

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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.

We honor Sergeant Manuel Martinez and Deputy Reynol Alvarado for their swift response and exemplary conduct during a recent hit-and-run investigation.

A Harris County resident shared the following praise:

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the swift and professional response of Deputy Reynol Alvarado and Sergeant Manuel Martinez during a recent vehicular hit-and-run crash in which I was involved. Deputy Alvarado was the first to arrive on the scene, and Sergeant Martinez followed shortly thereafter. Both officers demonstrated exceptional professionalism, calm, and efficiency in handling the situation. Within minutes, they were able to identify the individual responsible, which brought reassurance and a timely resolution during a very distressing moment. I am deeply grateful for their service and wanted to ensure their efforts are recognized.”

Their actions serve as a powerful reminder of the impact our deputies have on the lives of those they serve.

Sgt. Manuel Martinez began his career with HCSO in 2009 and currently serves as the Sergeant for Outside Patrol under the Criminal Investigation and Security Division within Detention Management.

Deputy Reynol Alvarado also joined the agency in 2009, initially serving as a detention officer. He now serves as a deputy assigned to Outside Patrol, where he works to protect life and property each day.

Thank you, Sgt. Martinez and Deputy Alvarado, for your dedication and continued commitment to our community.

Deputy Lecompte recently went above and beyond to assist the U.S. Army in securing a critical incident report. His persistence ensured that the Army could complete the necessary documentation to proceed with enlisting a young recruit, an effort that directly supported their mission.

In the words of the Army representative who submitted the commendation:

“Deputy Roy Lecompte has shown that he is willing to go above and beyond his call of duty to assist the Army. I wish I could have had Deputy Lecompte as part of my platoon in Iraq — I’m confident he would have been one of my most trusted soldiers. We are deeply grateful for the steadfast support and care shown by both Deputy Lecompte and HCSO.”

Deputy Lecompte began his career with HCSO in 2005 as a Detention Officer, graduating from the HCSO Academy in January 2008. Since then, he has continued to serve with distinction and is currently assigned to the HCSO Franz Road Storefront as of July 2024.

We commend Deputy Lecompte for embodying the HCSO mission of service, dedication, and integrity. His actions remind us of the powerful impact one deputy can have — not just within our county, but in support of our nation.

Thank you, Deputy Lecompte, for your outstanding service!

United for Kerr County

Families in Kerr County are still reeling from the recent floods—and they need our help. HCSO teammates recently visited the area and saw firsthand the devastation and urgent need for support.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO are collecting essential supplies to fill a 53-foot trailer for those impacted. From diapers to bottled water, every donation makes a difference.

  • Donation Hours: Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
  • Drop-off at any HCSO District Substation
  • Deadline: Tuesday, July 15 at 4 p.m.

Let’s come together, Harris County.

Compassion in Action: A Crisis Met with Care

A tense five-hour standoff on the North Freeway could have ended in tragedy, but thanks to Sgt. Aaron Brown and the HCSO Crisis Intervention Response Team ended with empathy, a handshake, and a hug.

Faced with a woman in deep distress, Sgt. Brown didn’t just see a crisis—he saw a person—a mother, a grandmother, a fellow human being.

Through patient listening, shared stories, and heartfelt connection, he helped her feel seen and safe. Just compassion, care, and service.

“Negotiation isn’t about talking—it’s about listening.”
“We’re all one bad day away from being on that freeway.”
“We don’t want to just respond—we want to serve.”

This is what crisis intervention looks like when done with heart. Thank you, Sgt. Brown, for reminding us of what public service truly means.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO encourages you to check in with yourself and those around you.

Help is available, and no one should struggle alone.

Join us for a Talent Show!

Do you have a hidden talent just waiting to shine? Whether you sing, dance, play an instrument, do magic, or have any other amazing skill—HCSO PAL Got Talent wants YOU! 1st, 2nd & 3rd place prizes!

This is your chance to show off your talent and be part of something incredible!

  • Deadline to Submit: July 9th at 5 PM
  • Finalists Must Perform In-Person: July 18th at 12 PM

How to Enter: Click HERE.

Be sure to review all the rules and guidelines listed in the form.

Don’t miss your chance to take the spotlight—submit your audition today!

Beware of Scammers!

Scammers are impersonating law enforcement officers to steal your money! Recently, Harris County residents have received calls and texts from someone claiming to be an HCSO Captain.

Law enforcement will never:

  • Call you to demand money for missing jury duty

  • Ask for your personal information over the phone

  • Threaten you with arrest for missing jury duty

If you receive a suspicious call:

  • Hang up and call the Harris County District Clerk’s Office at 713-755-6392 to verify the status of your jury duty

  • Do not give out any personal information to the caller

  • Report the scam to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at 713-221-6000

Stay vigilant and protect yourself from these scams!

Protect What Matters with Smart 911

Be ready before an emergency happens.

Create a Smart911 safety profile with your medical information, household members, pets, and more. It helps 911 responders get to you faster when seconds matter.

Be Aware of Bank Jugging!

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has noticed increased “bank jugging” incidents.

What is bank jugging? Criminals watch people withdraw cash from ATMs or banks and then follow them to steal the money. They may target victims in parking lots, stores, or even their homes.

How to protect yourself:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to people who seem to be loitering or watching you at the bank or ATM.

  • Conceal your cash: Put your money away immediately and securely. Don’t leave it visible in your car or purse.

  • Change your routine: Vary your banking habits and routes after leaving the bank.

  • If you think you’re being followed: Drive to the nearest police station or a well-populated area.

  • Report suspicious activity: If you see something, say something! Call the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at 713-221-6000.

Stay vigilant and help us prevent these crimes!