Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Living up To the Uniform and Badge

On Thursday, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office welcomed 60 new deputies to our Sheriff’s Office family. The graduation ceremony – and each cadet’s pledge to our sacred oath of office – culminated in resilience, teamwork, and a passion to serve others.

The HCSO academy training lays the foundation for a deputy’s law enforcement career. It equips them with the knowledge, tools, skills, and mindset to carry out our mission and core values.

During their journey, cadets engaged in 1,211 hours of curriculum, ranging from classroom instruction and firearms training to simulations, emergency vehicle operations, and patrol training. The training topics included critical crisis intervention, de-escalation techniques, tactical communications, and the Texas Penal Code.

The camaraderie built over the past 42 weeks will last a lifetime. For many, this bond started on day one. Cadets shared personal stories about what led them to the academy – and what motivated them to keep going.

Valedictorian Deputy Adan Del Fierro feels the Class of B1-2023 is a big family. They have worked, laughed, sweated, and even cried together. The teamwork that this class has demonstrated is unreal. “This has been the best experience of my life so far with sound, ethical, and determined people,” said Valedictorian Deputy Del Fierro. “We need to build trust between our community one person at a time, and I will make every interaction count.”

Each one of our newest deputies pursued this profession for a noble reason. They just took different paths to earn the Pride of Texas patch. Some have dreamed of becoming a police officer since they were a kid. Some followed the footsteps of a family member who wore the same uniform.

Some served in the military and saw this as the next chapter in their service to our community. Others may have looked at it as a place to help others.

The B1-2023 Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) is a diverse class, with 31% being women, and reflects the inclusivity and strength of our law enforcement community. We have cadets from all over Texas, California, Illinois, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, New Mexico, New Jersey, New York, Vietnam, and Turkey.

The class motto is “Here I Am, Send Me.” It reflects a readiness and willingness to serve and respond to a call of duty. The new deputies are committed and ready to take on responsibilities, even in challenging or demanding situations. The motto encapsulates the spirit of service and a commitment to protecting and serving the community.

“This was not an easy course, academically, for these cadets. We lost cadets due to academic failure, so those who have earned their badge earned it,” said HCSO Academy Deputy/Instructor Jessica L. Leggett. “Cadets put time outside of class in study sessions, whether with other cadets outside of the academy or staying at the academy until 7:00 p.m., some nights studying with a counselor.”

Cadets are put through countless scenarios during their training in the BPOC. These scenarios range from a virtual reality training simulator to force-on-force training, where simulation weapons are used during training. They successfully navigated Active Shooter scenarios, Officer Down scenarios, Mental Health scenarios, Family Violence scenarios, Building Entry scenarios, Use of Force scenarios, and many others.

“B1-2023 achieved a 98% first-time pass rate on their TCOLE licensing exam, which means 59 out of 60 cadets passed their 250-question state exam on the first try. This is a huge accomplishment, especially for a class of this size,” said Instructor Leggett.

The class completed two 5-mile fun runs. This distance is not easy to get to without putting in hard work during physical training sessions.

“The most memorable moment I had in this academy would be the five-mile obstacle course run with the command staff. We were paired up in groups of two. Deputy Martinez and I were able to finish second place,” said Deputy Del Fierro. “Once we finished, we caught up to the person at the end of the run, and we encouraged him to keep running. Deputy Martinez and I ended up running the course twice. I had never run or pushed myself to run so much in my life. This run showed me that I can achieve more than I ever thought I could.”

At the podium on Thursday, I challenged the new deputies to handle each call and assignment with pride. They must have a servant leader’s heart even on their most difficult days.

We would like to acknowledge all the HCSO Academy Instructors, especially Sgt. Jose Lopez for leading the class. His leadership skills were the driving force behind the success of the cadets in this class. He motivated, inspired, and kept them engaged at all times. We owe the success of this class largely to him.

Now, a challenge to our brothers and sisters in blue who came before them: Guide them. Mentor them. Show them how to always honor the badge you wear and carry as a symbol of public faith and trust.

Once again, congratulations to the Sheriff’s Office’s new Basic Peace Officer Course graduates! Your dedication and hard work have led you to this significant achievement. As you embark on your journey in law enforcement, may you carry the values of integrity, professionalism, and community service with you.

As you take on the responsibilities of a peace officer, always prioritize the well-being of the community you serve. Building trust, practicing empathy, and fostering positive relationships with the public are integral to effective law enforcement.

Wishing you a successful and fulfilling career ahead. Stay vigilant, stay dedicated, and make a positive impact on the lives of those you serve. Congratulations on reaching this milestone, and thank you for your commitment to public service.

We are proud of them and wish them well. They are the Pride of Texas.

Watch: B1-2023 Basic Peace Officer Course Graduation Ceremony

Arctic Blast Brought Freezing Temperatures to Harris County

The end of the week and higher temperatures could not have come soon enough. Harris County residents endured an arctic blast, and we are incredibly proud of our Sheriff’s Office teammates and the Harris County maintenance professionals who always do the job in the most challenging conditions. We appreciate their dedication to serving others and all that they do.

Our teammates adjusted their schedules to ensure around-the-clock coverage. We appreciate the dedication of all HCSO teammates.

As overpasses, bridges, and roadways were covered in ice, our patrol deputies and traffic investigators worked in these extreme conditions – reporting and blocking dangerous roadways, ramps, and freeway lanes; leading traffic safety and enforcement efforts and investigating crashes; performing proactive high visibility patrol efforts; and working collaboratively with area agencies on a wide range of public safety efforts.

Our Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) assisted those without housing with blankets, jackets, and transportation to emergency warming centers to stay warm and safe. Some other teammates attended warming centers and assisted with maintaining our resident’s safety.

Between Sunday, January 14, 2024, in the morning and Tuesday, January 16, 2024, in the afternoon, the HCSO HOT Team visited 115 locations and made 92 contacts. They transported five residents to shelters, provided five sleeping bags, 23 blankets and clothing, 33 pairs of socks, seven beanie hats, 15 hygiene kits, 53 meals-ready-to-eat (MRE), and 38 bottles of water.

Our Emergency Dispatch Center call takers are usually the first point of contact when a Harris County resident requires immediate assistance from law enforcement, medical, or fire personnel. They determine a caller’s needs and route the emergency call to the appropriate dispatcher. We are grateful for the collaboration of our partners who plalyed an active role in the activation of the Emergency Operations Center and Houston Transtar. During these trying times, we’re incredibly grateful for their service.

Thanks to all who heeded the call to stay home and keep the roads clear for emergency personnel and crews. Our hearts go out to each of you. We pray everyone keeps warm and safe.

WATCH: Help Combat Human Trafficking

Human Trafficking is a pervasive issue that affects communities worldwide, and we believe that awareness is a crucial step towards prevention.

On January 11, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office honored National Human Trafficking Awareness Day with a Facebook Live. We raised awareness and shared valuable information. If you missed the live, please click here to watch it. To learn more about what we can do to combat Human Trafficking, read our newsletter.

HCSO In The News

ABC13: Deputy hurt when truck drove through scene on I-10 pushed other victim out of the way, sheriff says

A Harris County sheriff’s deputy and two other men are recovering in area hospitals after they were struck by a work truck that drove through a crash scene on I-10 East Freeway on Thursday morning, according to Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. Gonzalez described it as a “very scary situation.”

The 38-year-old deputy is said to be in serious but fair condition and she is expected to survive her injuries. Gonzalez said she has at least one broken bone and other injuries to her legs, but she is alert in the hospital.

Houston Chronicle: Murders decline in Harris County, but aggravated assaults, robberies increase, data shows

While seeing a significant drop in homicides and other violent crimes in 2023, Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported jumps in aggravated assaults, robberies and fatal traffic crashes, preliminary data shows.

The sheriff’s office’s numbers also included an uptick in the number of fatalities in vehicle crashes from 163 in 2022 to 191 in 2023. Jason Spencer, chief of staff with the office, said they were concerned about aggressive drivers.

KPRC: Harris County Sexual Assault Response Team releases report on sexual assault cases, how officials can improve response

The Harris County Sexual Assault Response Team released a report on Wednesday regarding sexual assault cases in the county and to make recommendations on how officials can improve how they respond to these incidents.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, 3,779 sexual assaults were reported in Harris County in 2021. HAWC said this number is not the best representation of how many cases there are because less than 10% of sexual assaults are reported to police.

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

On January 9, 2024, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office honored National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. We thank those who bravely serve and protect our community. We are grateful for their unwavering dedication and service. Thank you for everything you do!

HCSO Coffee with a Recruiter

Join Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at the HCSO Coffee with a Recruiter on Saturday, January 20, 2024, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Starbucks at 2521 Post Oak Blvd. Houston, TX 77056.

We are hiring Detention Officers, Communication Officers, Deputy Cadets, Lateral Deputies, and other positions. For more information, visit HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250.

When: January 20, 2024

Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Location: Starbucks at 2521 Post Oak Blvd. Houston, TX 77056

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 receive positive emails, thank you notes and phone calls from the community regularly.

“I want to commend Deputy J. Ajayi. He pulled me over on New Year’s Eve because I was inadvertently weaving due to looking at a message on my phone. He treated me with courtesy and respect. However, he screened me for being intoxicated. I had not been drinking and informed him of that upon being pulled over. I understand that he had to ensure that I was in a position where I could drive safely,” said a Harris County resident. “I appreciated him keeping our roads safe and the professionalism and courtesy he extended me throughout the process.”

Deputy Jonathan Ajayi joined HCSO nine years ago as a Psychiatrist Technician in the HCSO Mental Health Unit in the Harris County Jail. In 2018, he became a licensed peace officer. Currently, he serves as a DWI Investigator in the Vehicular Crimes Division.

HCSO Stands Against Sexual Assault

On January 10, 2024, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) and community partners to raise awareness about sexual assault and to advocate for every person’s right to feel safe.

The Sexual Assault Response Team is a collaboration that brings together law enforcement, victim advocates, and other key stakeholders to provide comprehensive support to survivors of sexual assault.

We encourage anyone who may be experiencing abuse to reach out to us at 911 or 713-221-6000. Together, we can end sexual assault and make a difference.

Help Investigators Identify a Suspect Wanted for a Road Rage Shooting

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crime Investigators are releasing a composite sketch of a suspect wanted for the road rage shooting of a man in north Harris County. On December 14, 2023, at approximately 5 a.m., deputies were dispatched to 191 West Rd. Upon arrival, deputies found a 37-year-old male who had received a gunshot wound to his head.

The male advised he was involved in a road rage incident with a white 2007-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 4-door pickup. As they traveled along the southbound main lanes of Interstate 45 near the Rankin Rd exit, the man said the suspect in the pickup truck pulled up alongside him and shot at him, striking him in the head. The victim was transported to a local hospital in stable condition and remained alert and awake.

The driver is described as a white male, 40 to 50 years of age, with a full beard and mustache. He was wearing a distinctive baseball cap that said veterans with small badges on it.

Anyone with information on this incident is urged to call the HCSO Violent Crime unit at 713-274-9100 or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS (8477).

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Help Combat Human Trafficking

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

National Human Trafficking Prevention Month is observed in January. It serves as an opportunity to unite efforts against human trafficking, raise awareness, and mobilize communities to take action.

Houston is considered a major hub for human trafficking due to its size, diverse population, and proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border. Texas consistently has the second-highest number of calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline every year.

HCSO is fully committed to combating Human Trafficking. Our top priority is rescuing victims utilizing a trauma-informed approach with the ultimate goal of eliminating and reducing re-victimization.

What is human trafficking?

Human trafficking affects both adults and children, men and women, and people from all parts of Harris County, Texas, the United States, and around the world.

Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain labor or commercial sex acts. Every year, millions of men, women, and children are trafficked. It can happen in any community, and victims can be any age, race, gender, or nationality. Traffickers might use the following methods to lure victims into trafficking situations:

  • Violence
  • Manipulation
  • False promises of well-paying jobs
  • Romantic relationships

Language barriers, fear of their traffickers, and/or fear of law enforcement frequently keep victims from seeking help, making human trafficking a hidden crime.

What is the Harris County Sheriff’s Office doing to end human trafficking?

HCSO Human Trafficking Unit investigators play a critical role in identifying and combating these horrific cases that often victimize our most vulnerable neighbors.

Our agency conducts proactive investigations and participates in multi-partner operations, where we locate victims based on intelligence that we have developed.

HCSO also has a crime victim’s assistance unit and victim advocates for specialized crimes. The advocates for the human trafficking unit accompany the deputies to make contact with victims as soon as possible. And they can assist in connecting people to a myriad of resources, including financial, medical, legal, and more.

We work with organizations in our community to collaborate on solutions, from intervention and crisis planning to locating shelters or referrals. Even if someone feels that they aren’t ready or have to plan to get out safely, they can reach out to our advocates for that help.

Also, the Sheriff’s Office is a proud member of the Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance, a regional task force aimed at identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting those engaged in trafficking. The task force is made up of local, state, and federal agencies and combines resources to target human traffickers and connect victims of all forms of human trafficking, including labor and sex trafficking, to victims’ services.

Human Trafficking is a pervasive issue that affects communities worldwide, and we believe that awareness is a crucial step towards prevention. Join Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office for a Facebook Live to raise awareness about Human Trafficking next Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 11 a.m. via our Facebook page.

How can you help us stop human trafficking?

The community plays a crucial role in the fight against human trafficking. Here are some actions you can take to contribute to the fight against human trafficking:

  • Be Informed: Learn about the signs of human trafficking and understand how traffickers operate. Knowledge is crucial for recognizing potential cases and taking appropriate action.
  • Raise Awareness: Use your voice to raise awareness about human trafficking. Share information on social media, organize events and engage in conversations to educate others about the issue.
  • Support Anti-Trafficking Organizations: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to combating human trafficking. These organizations support survivors, conduct awareness campaigns, and work on prevention and advocacy.
  • Be Vigilant in Your Community: Stay alert to unusual or suspicious activities in your community, especially in places like hotels, bars, or transportation hubs. Report anything you find concerning to the appropriate authorities.
  • Be Mindful of Online Activities: Be cautious and aware of online activities, especially on social media. Traffickers often use online platforms to recruit victims. Report any suspicious online behavior to the appropriate authorities.

Collective efforts from the public are essential to creating a world free from human trafficking.

How to report human trafficking or suspicious activity?

  • In an emergency, dial 911.

Contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline:

We stand together with those who are being trafficked, survivors, and the many advocates in our region whose mission is to end human trafficking for all. Together, we can stop human trafficking. If you see something, say something.

Watch: HCSO 2023 Top Social Media Posts

A recap of HCSO’s most popular social media posts in 2023. Thank you to our followers for engaging with us. We look forward to keeping you informed and connected in 2024!

HCSO In The News

KHOU: ‘He gave me a lot of holiday cheer’ | Harris County inmates open Christmas gifts with their children

Forty children were reunited with their mothers for a holiday surprise this Christmas season. Their mothers are serving time at the Harris County Women’s Empowerment Center. For one mom, it was exactly what she needed to get a bit of peace. “He gave me a lot of holiday cheer,” said Ikea Lane about seeing her son, Daveon McGregor.

ABC 13: Charges filed against 18-wheeler driver at center of hours long SWAT standoff on I-10 East Fwy

The man accused of being behind the wheel of a semi-truck that stopped in the middle of the I-10 East Freeway last week has been charged. The video above is from a previous report. Trinidad Cutshall was charged with evading arrest and detention in a motor vehicle. Records show that the charges were filed on Dec. 30, days after the Harris County Sheriff’s Office identified Cutshall as the driver at the center of the dramatic standoff.

Congratulations to our new Detention Officers

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.

Join our team! Visit HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250 to apply today!

Multi-Agency Joint New Year’s DWI Initiative

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined forces with multiple agencies for the New Year’s holiday weekend to crack down on drunk drivers across the county.

Harris County historically has had the highest number of fatal crashes related to DWI. We appreciate our deputies’ hard work and all the agencies involved.

Let’s welcome 2024 with joy, responsibility, and a collective dedication to keeping our roads free from impaired driving.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office! We wish you a safe and prosperous 2024 filled with peace and happiness.

You are not alone, we are here to help you

Last month, the HCSO Crisis Intervention Response Team (CIRT) responded at a freeway bridge off of SH 99 and I-10 to an individual experiencing suicidal thoughts. CIRT assisted and got the individual the appropriate resources. If you need assistance call 988 or 713-970-7000.

Investigators Need Your Help in Locating Suspect and Vehicle Used in East Harris County Murder

We need your help in identifying murder suspects and their vehicle after a road rage incident that occurred on November 19, 2023, in east Harris County.

Twenty-one-year-old Angel Muniz-Acosta died of his injuries, and a 21-year-old female passenger was not injured. The suspects’ vehicle is a silver-colored 4-door sedan.

Anyone with information call the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit at 713-274-9100 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477). Click here to read the release.

Who Killed Malachi Lopez: Investigators Need Public’s Help

Help HCSO Investigators find the murderer of Malachi Lopez. The victim’s photo is shown above. On November 18, 2023, the Precinct 4 Constable’s Office responded to a shooting at the Cashel Springs Apartments located at 14222 Wunderlich in north Harris County. When deputies arrived, they located 20-year-old Malachi Lopez, who had suffered a gunshot wound. Lopez was transported to a hospital in critical condition and died the following day.

The HCSO Homicide Unit took over the case. Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Homicide Office at 713-274-9100 or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS (8477). Click here to read the release.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Wishes Everyone Happy Holidays!

Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

During the holiday season, we must pause and reflect on the positive aspects of our lives and the true meaning of the festivities. The kindness and determination demonstrated by many community members this year are truly remarkable. As we celebrate Christmas and the holidays, I would like to express my appreciation for your continued support.

Some of our teammates will work through the holidays, sacrificing time spent with their loved ones. Our job never stops, and I’m grateful for those who serve and protect our residents with honor and courage.

I hope everyone enjoys time with their loved ones. We’re grateful for your readership and partnership and wish you and yours a restful and joyous holiday! Stay safe.

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Harris County Sheriff’s Office Joins Shop with a Cop Program

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined the Shop with a Cop program this holiday season. This heartwarming initiative brought joy, built positive relationships, and created lasting memories between law enforcement officers and the youth in our community.

This program spread holiday cheer by allowing children to shop for gifts alongside law enforcement officers using donated gift cards valued up to $200. It’s a festive occasion that brings smiles and warmth to all involved.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office began a partnership with Macy’s August 2022 and with Target this year. However, we have participated in various Shop with Cop events with other organizations over the past several years.

HCSO participated in eight Shop with a Cop events this holiday season. The last Shop with a Cop was with eight essay contest winners!

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the opportunity to participate in programs like Shop with a Cop. Together, we can make the holiday season brighter for the children in our community and foster a spirit of unity.

Celebrate Responsibly!

In the spirit of the holidays, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office encourages the community to celebrate responsibly. Never drink and drive!

HCSO wants to emphasize the importance of responsible and safe holiday celebrations. Our community’s well-being is a collective effort, which means making responsible choices, and planning ahead about how you will get home before you start drinking.

Drinking and driving jeopardizes not only your safety but the safety of others on the road. This season, let’s prioritize the welfare of our loved ones, neighbors, and fellow community members.

  • Designate a Sober Driver: Plan and designate a sober driver if you’ll be consuming alcohol.
  • Use Rideshare Services: Take advantage of rideshare services or public transportation to ensure a safe journey home.
  • Encourage Responsible Choices: Remind friends and family to make responsible choices and avoid driving under the influence.
  • Report Suspected Drunk Drivers: If you observe someone driving erratically, immediately report it to 911 or 713-221-6000.
  • Plan Alternative Transportation: Have a backup plan for getting home that doesn’t involve driving under the influence.

By making responsible choices, we can collectively contribute to a safer and happier holiday season. Thank you for being a trustworthy and caring member of our community. Let’s ensure this holiday season is filled with joy, warmth, and safety.

WATCH: Tips To Prevent Auto Theft During the Holiday Season

Lt. John Gonzalez from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Auto Theft Division provides car burglary prevention tips for the holiday season.

WATCH: Protecting Your Packages

As we enjoy the holidays, it’s important to be vigilant and protect your packages from porch pirates. The HCSO Burglary and Theft Unit is sharing valuable tips to help safeguard your packages and ensure a secure holiday. Call 713-221-6000 to report stolen packages.

HCSO In The News

KHOU: HCSO releases video, photos of vehicle involved in deadly road rage shooting

Law enforcement agencies are joining forces to put the brakes on reckless driving following the increase in injuries and fatalities involving pedestrians and bicyclists. Sheriff Ed Gonzales said this year in Harris County, 57 auto-pedestrian collisions resulted in a total of 60 pedestrian deaths. In 2022, there were 53 such accidents resulting in 53 deaths, and in 2021, 46 crashes killed 48 people. “The number of auto-pedestrian fatalities keeps increasing year after year. This is a major concern for us,” said Sheriff Gonzalez.

Click2Houston: Harris County Jail moving to digital mail system to cut down on contraband

A recent investigation by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office highlights an ongoing effort to cut down on contraband smuggled into jails and prisons via paper correspondence. Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said the county is in the final stages of setting up a digital mail system in the jail. Houston attorney Ronald Lewis, 77, was recently charged with bringing paper soaked in synthetic marijuana and ecstasy into the jail. He is charged with two felonies of bringing a prohibited substance into a correctional facility. Lewis’ attorney has not yet returned a call to KPRC 2 for comment.

The HCSO Elf on the Shelf – Deputy Elfington – Farewell and Gratitude

As the holiday season comes to a close, Deputy Elfington is returning to the North Pole to assist Santa for next year’s festivities.

He wants to thank our community, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office for the warm welcome and festive spirit shared throughout his stay.

“It has been a joyous adventure filled with community events, safety initiatives, meeting great teammates, and spreading holiday cheer,” said Deputy Elfington. “Thank you for being an amazing community, and until next time, happy holidays and a fantastic new year!”

Deputy Elfington joined a patrol training in north Harris County with Deputy Priscilla Leos, who joined HCSO in 2012 as a detention officer.

She became a deputy in 2017. Deputy Leos has been assigned to District 2 Patrol since 2019.

Deputy Elfington, trained with the HCSO Motorcycle Unit!

Elfington joined Deputy Victor Garcia, an accident investigator.

Deputy Garcia joined HCSO in 2013; since 2014, he’s been part of our Vehicular Crimes Division.

Deputy Elfington went to the Harris County Jail to assist with the mail project to keep our teammates and those in our custody safe. Detention Officers Zanquess Cavett and Peyton Anderson processed inmate mail.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office established the jail-based Criminal Investigations and Security Division in response to a substantial increase in drug overdoses in the jail. The safety of our teammates and those in our custody is our priority.

Deputy Elfington also went to the HCSO Emergency Dispatch Center and helped Communication Officer Charles Kintz with calls.

Communication Officer Kintz began his career at HCSO in 2008. He’s enthusiastic about his role and takes pride in helping his community.

Deputy Elfington also trained with K9 Timon, our paw enforcement partner.

K9 Timon is a 3-year-old Belgian Malinois certified in patrol and narcotics and works with his handler, Deputy Clayton.

After work, Elfington took K9 Timon to get a Puppuccino to celebrate a successful training day! Thanks to K9 Timon and Deputy Clayton for protecting our community.

Deputy Elfington trained with the HCSO SWAT Team and learned basic tactical operations from Deputy Kenneth Sandor.

Deputy Sandor joined HCSO in 2013 as a patrol deputy in District 3 in east Harris County. He joined the HCSO SWAT team in 2015 and is one of the team’s Marksman.

In Memory of K9 Ziko

We are sad to report the passing of our beloved K9 Ziko.

K9 Ziko was an 11-year-old Belgian Malinois who recently retired and assisted with numerous narcotics arrests and criminal apprehensions. K9 Ziko worked with Sgt. Moore since November 2014 and was part of HCSO SWAT since 2016.

Sgt. Moore and Ziko shared a unique bond. Ziko’s recent retirement allowed him to enjoy a well-deserved rest, surrounded by the love and care of Sgt. Moore and his family.

Ziko served with unwavering loyalty and dedication. His presence will be sorely missed, and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those privileged to work alongside him. Thanks to K9s4COPs for their support.

We extend our deepest condolences to Sgt. Moore, his family, and those who worked with him.

In honor of K9 Ziko’s service, bravery, and friendship, we express our gratitude for his indelible mark on HCSO and the community he served.

May you rest in peace, faithful companion. Thank you for your service.

Harris County Sheriff’s Office Teammate of the Week

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office highlight teammates who go above and beyond their normal duties to serve others. We receive positive commendations daily from the community describing positive impacts.

“I want to pause and recognize one of your outstanding officers and his commitment to excellence and exceeding expectations! Sgt. Ernie McNabb has worked in our district, northwest Harris County, for over ten years. As soon as I reported to him that we were getting slammed with community mailbox thefts, he immediately engaged and continued checking the cluster boxes during his patrols,” said a Harris County resident.

“He rolled up on a suspect at the mailboxes with the trunk of the vehicle opened and holding a crowbar in his hand. The suspect fled, but Sgt. McNabb got him identified, and the U.S. Postal Inspector was delighted to get this piece of the puzzle to bring their evidence on this ring to charges filed! The suspects were caught with stolen mail and counterfeit mailbox keys. Sheriff Gonzalez, our District is extremely pleased with the work and efforts of Sgt. McNabb and we would like to request that he receive the Highest Commendation that you can give! Thank you!”

Sergeant McNabb began his law enforcement career in 1993. He transferred to HCSO from the Precinct 4 Constable’s Office seven years ago. He currently serves as a night shift Sergeant in District 2 in north Harris County.

Holiday Food Distribution

‘Tis the season of giving, and we are delighted to invite you to join the Blue Christmas Food Distribution Event organized by Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Asian American Peace Officers’ Association.

The event is scheduled for Friday, December 22, 2023, at 2 p.m. at the HCSO Tomball Substation, 23828 Tomball Parkway, Tomball, TX 77375. We will be giving away frozen turkeys along with sides. The food will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. We hope to see ya’ll there!