Author: HCMUD 150

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

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

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

Crime Prevention Tips

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

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

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

See Something, Say Something

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

Contact Us

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

WATCH: HCSO Stands Against Domestic Violence

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

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

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

Contact Us

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

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

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

Donation Drive to Support Victims of Domestic Violence

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

HCSO Ford Mustang Mach-E

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

HCSO In The News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

National Night Out 2023

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

WATCH: Congratulations to the newly promoted HCSO members!

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

HCSO Coffee and Careers

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

Hispanic Heritage Month

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

Upcoming HCSO Events

HCSO Trunk-Or-Treat Events

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

HCSO Trunk-or-Treat October 20, 2023

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

HCSO Trunk-or-Treat October 25, 2023

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

HCSO Open House and Hiring Expo!

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

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

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

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

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

Visit two locations:

7900 Will Clayton Pkwy
23828 Tomball Pkwy

For more information, visit dea.gov/takebackday.

Family Fall Fest

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

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office firmly stands with domestic violence victims and survivors, providing them with unwavering support. Yesterday morning, myself and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined AVDA (Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse) and other community partners to advocate for every person’s right to feel safe.

The Sheriff’s Office has worked with AVDA since 2008 by referring victims to this trusted partner agency. We recognize the seriousness and harmful impact of domestic violence and prioritize the safety and well-being of those affected.

In 2021, 204 Texans were killed due to domestic violence. The greatest number of lives lost were from Harris County — 46. Seven of the 46 were males. In 2022, HCSO had 13,159 total domestic violence calls. To date, in 2023, HCSO has responded to 8,565 domestic violence calls.

According to the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC), 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men will experience domestic or sexual violence in their lifetime. We know it’s often a hidden threat in our community, lurking behind closed doors.

Our deputies are entrusted by our community to protect them. We take very seriously our duty to help those who are being hurt by someone who is supposed to love them. We are committed to enforcing the law and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions, providing a safe environment for all.

We collaborate closely with local organizations, support services, and shelters to offer victims access to resources that can aid their recovery and empower them to rebuild their lives. Our goal is to break the cycle of domestic violence and foster a community where everyone feels safe and respected.

The Sheriff’s Office pledges to continue working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of domestic violence victims and survivors. We encourage anyone who may be experiencing domestic violence or knows someone who is to reach out to us, as we are here to help and support you through this difficult time. Together, we can make a difference

Below are some resources for residents who are either in a domestic violence situation or want to report a domestic violence situation:

• If you are in immediate danger, call or text 911.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-7233 or if you’re unable to speak safely, you can text 88788.
• Houston Area’s Women Center’s 24/7 Hotlines:
  • Domestic Violence Hotline: 713-528-2121
  • Toll Free Line: 800-256-0551
• Rape Crisis Hotline: 713-528-7273
• Click here to learn more about HAWC’s services
• Harris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Victims Unit: 713-274-9369

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

Donation Drive to Support Victims of Domestic Violence

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is accepting donations benefiting local non-profit organizations to assist domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Starting October 2 through October 27, you can drop off donations at four drop-off locations.

Building a Stronger Community

Every year hundreds of residents from across our country come together to spend an evening with their neighbors in honor of National Night Out. They host block parties, festivals, and other fun activities to build bonds with each other and the police and deputies patrolling and protecting their community.

We look forward to coming together again for National Night Out festivities next Tuesday, October 3, 2023, and celebrating the true meaning of this tradition – community. We want to take a moment to celebrate our communities, the feelings of connectivity fostered by them, and what it means to be a good neighbor.

It’s an evening the Sheriff’s Office looks forward to every year because we get to meet our community. We love serving and strengthening our relationships in the community through personal connections.

Now more than ever, a strong support system is vital. You and your neighbors are the backbone of a safer, more caring community. Please join us on October 3, 2023, and plan to go out and meet your neighbors.

HCSO In The News

Houston Public Media: Detention officers are getting a 12% pay increase to improve understaffing in the Harris County Jail

“Detention officers inside the Harris County Jail will receive salary increases as part of the county’s newly adopted 2024 budget in an effort to reduce turnover and understaffing within the overcrowded jail.

“The jail’s been experiencing critical-level staffing shortages for the last couple of years that have made it very difficult, if not impossible, for us to meet state minimum staffing requirements at the jail,” Spencer said. “We’re optimistic that we’ll be able to get closer to being fully staffed in the jail.”

KPRC: PHOTOS: Chop shop discovered in NW Harris County; Stolen vehicles worth $254K recovered

“Five stolen vehicles worth more than $254,000 were recovered after a chop shop was discovered in northwest Harris County, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Division. A Harris County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Division official said via social media that felony theft charges were filed in the case. The location of the chop shop was not disclosed, nor the suspects involved.”

Harris County Sheriff’s Office Women’s Symposium

We had a wonderful time at the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Women’s Symposium! Thank you to all the law enforcement women protecting and serving our community.

The conference’s objective was to advance the development of women in Law Enforcement through education, recognition, and achievement.

We had multiple guests, panelists, and speakers, including the Houston Metro Police Department Chief Vera Bumpers, Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office Laurie Christensen, FBI National Academy Instructor Heidi Ramsey, Harris County Sheriff’s Office Retired Assistant Chief Debra Schmidt, the Chief of Police of Waco Police Department Sheryl Victorian, Licensed Professional Counselor Ashley S. Warren. We also had a panel with Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, Chief Deputy Mike Lee, Assistant Chief Phillip Bosquez, Assistant Chief Tommy Diaz, and Assistant Chief Tony Huynh.

We also had an Award Ceremony to highlight the fantastic job our teammates are doing. Thanks to our host, Angelique Myers, the Senior Media Services Manager at HCSO.

To the HCSO Women in Law Enforcement Symposium Committee, we thank each of you for your commitment and efforts to make this a successful symposium. Recruiting women into law enforcement is essential to creating a more diverse and equitable police force.

HCSO Teammates of the Week

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

‘The Blue Mass’, an annual celebration and service for local first responders.

National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined Crime Stoppers of Houston and other partners at an event last night in honor of the National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims.

Congratulations to the HCSO Jail Brothers in Arms for winning the National Association of Counties (NACo) 2023 Achievement Award in the category of Criminal Justice and Public Safety!

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

Hispanic Heritage Month

In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are highlighting our agency’s leaders.

Today marks the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office acknowledges and celebrates the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Hispanic community. Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and experiences that enrich our county is important.

National Hispanic Heritage Month, also known as Latinx Heritage Month, is celebrated in the United States from September 15 to October 15, because it commemorates the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Mexico which celebrates its independence on September 16. This month-long celebration is meant to recognize the contributions, culture, and history of Hispanic individuals.

From art to literature, music to food, there is so much to celebrate and learn about Hispanic cultures. Let’s take this month as an opportunity to educate ourselves, appreciate diversity, and foster a more inclusive society.

Join me in recognizing and celebrating the vibrant tapestry of Hispanic heritage! Ways to honor and celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month:

1. Educate yourself: Read books, watch documentaries, and explore online resources highlighting Hispanic heritage.
2. Share knowledge: Raise awareness about the achievements and struggles of Hispanic Americans.
3. Attend cultural events: Participate in local celebrations, festivals, or exhibitions that showcase Hispanic heritage, such as music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions.
4. Support Hispanic-owned businesses: Visit local Hispanic restaurants, shops, and businesses to show appreciation for their contributions to the community’s economy.
5. Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to Hispanic community organizations or initiatives focusing on education, healthcare, social justice, or other relevant causes.
6. Recognize Hispanic leaders: Highlight and acknowledge the achievements of Hispanic leaders in your community, workplace, or school.
7. Promote cultural integration: Encourage diversity and inclusivity by fostering a safe and welcoming environment for others.

Together ‘Unidos’ We Make The Difference

This month also serves as a platform to raise awareness of the challenges and issues faced by the Hispanic community. In 2021, we launched Unidos, a program aimed at providing assistance to Spanish-speaking residents in Harris County through valuable resources and connections to meet the community’s needs.

Unidos covers a range of topics, including how to report a crime and address public safety concerns. The program helps promote safer communities and a better quality of life by establishing meaningful relationships with residents and empowering them through education. For more information about Unidos, send an email to Unidos@sheriff.hctx.net.

We hope everyone has a happy and memorable Hispanic Heritage Month!

National Suicide Prevention Week

In honor of National Suicide Prevention Month and Week, HCSO Behavioral Health and Mental Health Divisions joined forces with The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD and hosted a discussion on suicide prevention and awareness and answered questions from the viewers.

Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, your loved ones, and your community stronger. It is critical that you recognize what stress looks like, take steps to build your resilience, and know where to go if you need help.

If you are worried about a loved one or if you need help, please call:

• The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988
• For Emergencies call 911
• The Harris Center 713-970-7000
• HCSO non-emergency line 713-221-6000
• Mobile Crisis Outreach Team 713-970-7520
• Crisis Hotline-Military Veterans 1-800-273-8255

There’s always a better path with care, resources, and support. You are not alone.

HCSO In The News

KHOU: HCSO Deputy Released From Hospital About a Month After Being Shot During Traffic Stop

“A Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputy who was shot in the line of duty was released from the hospital recently.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said Joseph Anderson, who was shot during a traffic stop last month, left on Saturday, nearly one month after he was shot.

Terran Green, the man facing charges in connection with Anderson’s shooting, is due back in court in November. He’s accused of shooting several law enforcement officers over the course of about 24 hours in August. Three of them were shot and one was injured by shrapnel.”

KHOU: Runaway Task Force Created To Find Houston’s Missing Kids

“For years, the parents of missing children company that the term “runaway” has held back law enforcement efforts to find their kids. But now, with a better understanding of child trafficking, some of that appears to be changing.

Last month, KHOU 11 News followed a new Harris County task force designated to locate reported runaway kids. The sheriff’s office said it’s working, but some parents of missing kids said that for them, it’s too late.”

Katy Magazine: Harris County Police Captain Talks Katy Crime; How Residents Can Help

“Captain Donald Wine of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and a strong Katyite, including a proud Katy High School graduate, sat down exclusively with Katy Magazine to talk the state of Katy’s crime.

Katy’s growth comes with many great new amenities and opportunities, but crime also follows growth along with the rise in population. Captain Wine loves Katy and wants people to trust the police and take responsibility for keeping this community great. “If you don’t report it, we don’t know about it,” says Captain Wine. “Your police are here and we do care.””

Follow HCSO Social Media

HCSO TeleDeputy Overtime Program

For the next year, deputies will handle eligible 911 calls/reports by phone allowing patrol deputies to focus on higher-priority calls with faster response times.

HCSO Teammate of the Week

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

HCSO Sgt. Brawner saves dog from residential fire in Harris County

Harris County Sheriff’s Office Honors 9/11 Victims at Atascocita High

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO participated in a community safety forum hosted by Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner’s Office

September is National Preparedness Month

HCSO Upcoming Events

National Night Out

We look forward to coming together again for National Night Out festivities on October 3 and celebrating the true meaning of this tradition – community.

If you would like to volunteer please reach out to Community Engagement at 346-286-3125. If your neighborhood plans on participating, please click here to register.

Pedal for the Call!

Do you like to ride bicycles? Join HCSO on September 24, for the Pedal for the Call! The goal is to raise public awareness of police suicides in the nation and raise funds for the nonprofit organization COPLine. Please click here to register.

HCSO Bicycle Rodeo Event

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

Karaoke with a Deputy

Join us September 28, 2023, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. for karaoke with a deputy!

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Last week, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) honored exceptional deputies, detention officers, and teammates for their courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to serving their community. The awards ceremony reflected our team members’ incredible work across our agency, day in and day out. I am truly humbled to work alongside phenomenal public servants.

Nearly 115 recipients distinguished themselves through sacrificial service and heroic acts on duty. Their efforts earned them awards for bravery, lifesaving, leadership, and excellent and persistent police work.

We extend our sincere gratitude to their families. They know their loved one is performing a vital and sometimes dangerous job. This accomplishment also belongs to them.

We have an opportunity to make an impact every day in our profession. We thank our teammates for their hard work, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. Congratulations on this accomplishment! Keep up the fantastic work!

In Case You Missed The Ceremony

• Watch the ceremony.
• View photos from the event.

Suicide Prevention Month: One Conversation Can Change a Life

Our Harris County Sheriff’s Office family understands how crucial it is for everyone to care about their mental well-being. Our mental health can influence how we think, feel, and act. We take great pride in actively addressing behavioral health issues in Harris County through meaningful partnerships, specialized training, and model programs. We strive daily to serve residents compassionately while prioritizing our community’s safety.

In honor of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we remember those we have lost and come together to raise awareness around a complex topic. It’s a time to support those affected by suicide, share memories of loved ones, reduce the stigma through education, and encourage those needing help and resources.

We Are Here For You

The following warning signs from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event.

• Talking about feeling hopeless or being a burden to others
• Substance abuse
• Acting anxious or behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves
• Showing rage or extreme mood swings

If you or someone you know is having a hard time, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.

Thanks for doing your part to raise awareness around mental health and suicide prevention. While there is no single cause for suicide, there are risk factors and warning signs we can learn. And we can stand together to build a world rooted in neighbors helping neighbors. It can save lives.

Join HCSO Facebook Live Discussion on Suicide Prevention Resources

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, our Behavioral Health and Mental Health Divisions are joining forces with The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD to host a Facebook Live discussion on suicide prevention resources and to answer questions from the community on crisis support. Tune into the livestream on the HCSO Facebook Page at 1 p.m., on Friday, September 8, 2023. Don’t miss it.

Make a Plan: Don’t Drink and Drive

As we reflect on our daily dedication and commitment to our work this Labor Day weekend, let’s celebrate this special holiday responsibly.

Before the festivities begin, do your part to ensure everyone’s safety on our roads.

• Don’t wait until after you have started drinking to make a plan. Alcohol impairs your judgment and you may think you’re okay to drive when you are not.
• Designate a sober driver or arrange for someone you trust to pick you up.
• Call or text a sober friend or family member.
• Call a taxi or rideshare service, such as Uber or Lyft.
• Use public transit, such as the METRORail, to get home safely.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is joining forces with other law enforcement agencies ahead of the Labor Day holiday weekend to crack down on drunk drivers across the county.

Harris County has had one of the highest DWI fatality crash rates in the country for several years. The multi-agency impaired driver task force will focus on preventing alcohol and drug-related traffic incidents and saving lives. Dozens of deputies will be out in full force to identify and arrest motorists that make the choice to get behind the wheel while under the influence.

Every single injury and death caused by drunk driving is preventable. If you’re drinking, don’t take a chance on being arrested or hurting yourself or someone else.

Have a fun-filled and safe Labor Day weekend with your loved ones. Enjoy a day of rest and be proud of your contributions to our communities.

WATCH: Help the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Solve Crime

Want to help us catch criminals and solve crimes using your surveillance cameras? Join our SafeCam Program! The program allows residents and businesses to register their surveillance cameras voluntarily.

If you have a private exterior security camera, you can participate and register your camera with SafeCam by clicking here. Thank you for helping us make our county a safer place.

HCSO In The News

Houston-area community center renamed in honor of fallen Harris County Deputy Darren Almendarez

“He served 23 years with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office before his life was taken. Now his memory will live on in the form of a community center that will celebrate his life.

Harris County Precinct 2 announcing that the Northeast Community Center located at 10918 1/2 Bentley in Houston had been renamed, “The Deputy Darren Almendarez Community Center”, in honor of Deputy Darren Almendarez. He was shot and killed on March 31, 2022, when he was off duty and interrupted three men attempting to steal a catalytic converter from his vehicle, in a grocery store parking lot.”

Harris County Sheriff asks Commissioners Court for additional funding to boost department pay

“With Harris County finalizing next year’s budget in the coming weeks, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez is calling on members of Commissioners Court to boost funding at the jail and come up with a plan to increase pay for patrol and detention officers.

Under the budget office’s proposal, which was presented to Commissioners Court on Tuesday, the budget for the jail would grow from $254 million to $291 million, while the sheriff’s office allocation for patrol and administration would increase from $258 million to $290 million.”

Meet ‘The Rook,’ the SWAT vehicle instrumental in ending tense standoff in Humble

“At 7 feet tall, twice the weight of a pickup truck with bulletproof glass and metal, “The Rook” has become an integral part of the Tactical Response Unit at the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

“I would say ‘The Rook’ is an absolute gamechanger in law enforcement, for the safety of our personnel and for the safety of citizens,” explained Lt. Bryan Buccini. “We can use negotiations. We can use chemical munitions. We can use robots and drones. This is just another tool in our tool box.””

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez’s Labor Day Playlist

Have you ever wondered what music Sheriff Ed Gonzalez listens to? You don’t have to wonder anymore! Sheriff Gonzalez is sharing his favorite songs leading into the Labor Day weekend.

Plug in your headphones, press play, and let the good vibes flow! Get ready to sing along, dance like nobody’s watching, or simply relax and unwind to some amazing tunes. Have a wonderful and safe Labor Day Weekend and thank you for your service!

HCSO Teammates of the Week

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

Congratulations to our Teammates who got awards at the International Association of Crime Analysts

Congratulations to our 29 new Detention Officers on their graduation!

Are you looking for a job? We’re Hiring! Visit HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250.

HCSO Hosted the First-Ever Women’s Empowerment Center Graduation

Thirty-two incarcerated residents graduated from various programs aimed at preparing them for success once they are released. Congratulations to these women!

WATCH Women’s Empowerment Center: Preparing women for success

We’re sharing the story of Trisha Cornett, a 42-year-old Women’s Empowerment Center incarcerated resident. “The Women’s Empowerment Center has been a life-changing experience,” said Trisha.

HCSO Upcoming Events

National Night Out

We look forward to coming together again for National Night Out festivities on October 3 and celebrating the true meaning of this tradition – community.

If your neighborhood plans on participating, please click here to register.

Pedal for the Call!

Do you like to ride bicycles? Join HCSO on September 24, for the Pedal for the Call! The goal is to raise public awareness of police suicides in the nation and raise funds for the nonprofit organization COPLine. Please click here to register.