HCSO Newsletter #212 – HCSO Hosts Inaugural Awards in Excellence Luncheon
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On Saturday, May 24, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office held its inaugural Awards in Excellence Luncheon, celebrating the dedication and commitment of our team members. The event brought together HCSO personnel and their families for an afternoon of recognition and appreciation.
Seventeen awards were presented to exemplary individuals across the agency. Among them was the presentation of the Katrina Armin Civilian Impact Award, named in memory of a beloved and influential figure whose contributions were instrumental to the success of the HCSO Foundation and this event. The award pays tribute to her and ensures her impact is both remembered and celebrated.
In his remarks, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez took the opportunity to thank attendees and their families, acknowledging the sacrifices made every day by those in uniform. He also reiterated his commitment to advocating for better compensation for our frontline team members. Just a few days before the ceremony, Harris County Commissioners Court approved a measure to raise deputy pay, following months of advocacy and public commentary.
Speaking previously on Hello Houston, Sheriff Gonzalez said: “I think we need to make sure that we’re doing everything possible to do right by our frontline deputies and constables as well, who play such an important role.” He echoed these sentiments during a press conference and in an interview with the Houston Chronicle, where he continued to push for fair pay and support for those serving on the front lines.
Sheriff Gonzalez’s advocacy played an important role in securing the salary adjustment. To put things into perspective, the current starting salary for deputies in Harris County is $57,000 a year, but thanks to the vote, that amount will rise to $75,000, aligning with the City of Houston’s pay scale.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Foundation for graciously supporting and helping to make this important day possible. The Awards in Excellence Luncheon marks the beginning of a new tradition to recognize and uplift the heroes who serve Harris County.
WATCH: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez Addresses Deputy Pay Gap and Public Safety Issues on Hello Houston
WATCH: Meet Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez
HCSO In the News
ABC13: Pilot, missing aircraft found after crashing into tree near West Houston Airport, HCSO says
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputies have located a pilot and his aircraft after it crashed into a tree and caught fire near the West Houston Airport on Friday afternoon.
Deputies responded to the incident at about 4 p.m. in the 18000 block of Groschke Road near Barker Cypress Road.
Click2Houston: Deputies arrest man with 6 felony warrants following car chase in NW Harris County
*A man wanted on six felony warrants out of Galveston County is now in custody after leading officers on a 20-minute pursuit that ended in a crash Monday afternoon.*
KPRC 2’s Ricky Munoz is at the scene of the arrest.
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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.
This week, we’re highlighting Deputy Dorien Allen, who recently received praise from a community member following a professional and respectful traffic stop:
“Deputy Allen was very polite. She was in training and pulled me over for not having a front license bracket. I appreciate and support the blue. It’s great to see young women becoming deputies!” – said a Harris County resident.
Deputy Allen began her journey with the agency in February 2024 as part of our Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) and proudly graduated in December 2024. She now serves in patrol, where she continues to demonstrate professionalism, courtesy, and a strong commitment to public service.
Thank you, Deputy Allen, for representing the values of HCSO and making a positive impact in the field!
We’re honored to highlight Deputy Darian Taylor, who recently received praise from a community member following a thoughtful and compassionate traffic stop:
“On April 30, I was pulled over by Deputy Taylor. When he arrived at my vehicle, he greeted me with a smile, introduced himself, and we had a pleasant exchange,” said a Harris County resident. “That morning had been a rough one, but the deputy didn’t add to it—he reminded me that there are still good people out there. Sometimes, a smile and genuine care go a long way. Thank you, Deputy Taylor, for that reminder.”
Deputy Taylor began his career with HCSO as a detention officer and graduated from the HCSO Basic Peace Officer Course in August 2018, launching his law enforcement career in patrol. He now proudly serves the community as a Contract Deputy assigned to the Winchester County Subdivision.
Thank you, Deputy Taylor, for exemplifying the professionalism, compassion, and service that define HCSO’s commitment to our community.
Protect Your Vehicle – Stop Catalytic Converter Theft!
Catalytic converter theft is on the rise, but you can help stop it. Simple steps like etching your VIN and using high-heat paint can make your vehicle a harder target for thieves.
Let’s work together to keep our community safe and our vehicles protected.
Report suspicious activity: 713-221-6000
More info: harriscountyso.org
Welcoming New Deputies!
HCSO Command Staff welcomed Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) Class B1-2025 to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
With 58 cadets beginning their journey in service and leadership, we’re proud to support their training and growth as they prepare to protect and serve our community.
Best of luck to the entire class — your future in law enforcement starts now!
We’re Hiring Detention Officers!
Ready to make a difference in your community? Start a rewarding career in public service with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
Apply now at HCSOJobs.com.
Questions? Call us at 713-877-5250
2025 Nextdoor Neighborly Award Recipients!
We were honored to receive the 2025 Nextdoor Neighborly Award at the Golden Post Awards, Government Social Media!
Thank you for trusting the Harris County Sheriff’s Office to help keep you informed and safe. With over 11 years of community engagement on Nextdoor, we’re proud to serve you daily.
If you haven’t done so, connect with us on Nextdoor: tinyurl.com/2b8nctbc.
The 2025 Community Safety & Business Symposium
On May 23, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined community leaders at the 2025 Community Safety & Business Symposium, hosted by the Texas Safety and Business Alliance at the Chinese Community Center.
We’re proud to share that Sheriff Ed Gonzalez was honored with the Houston Public Safety Leadership Award for his continued commitment to building safer communities.
Congratulations as well to Lt. Mike Nguyen, who received the Community Leadership in Public Safety Award for his exceptional service and dedication.
A heartfelt thank-you to the organizers for convening this important event and for fostering partnerships that strengthen public safety across our region. Together, we move forward stronger and more united.