Sheriff Message

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.

 

I hope this message finds you all in good health and high spirits. On Wednesday, August 16, 2023, Harris County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Joseph Anderson was shot during a traffic stop at the 13600 block of Homestead Road in north Harris County. He was transported via life flight to a hospital, where he underwent surgery and remains in critical but stable condition.

Deputy Anderson is 29 years old and started his law enforcement career with Brookshire Police Department in 2017 and joined the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in June 2022. He is currently assigned to patrol District 2 in north Harris County. His twin brother, Jacob Anderson, also works in patrol with HCSO.

“Deputy Anderson builds good relationships through open and friendly communication. He’s easy to work with and is well-liked by his peers,” said his supervisor.

The suspect, Terran Green, was taken into custody Thursday evening after a SWAT standoff in the 15100 block of Silhouette Ridge in northeast Harris County. During the standoff, Green injured two U.S. Marshal deputies and a Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputy. The injured officers are in good condition and have been released from a local hospital. Green has been charged with three counts of Attempted Capital Murder.

Incredible work by HCSO SWAT and our negotiators. We appreciate the assistance from the Houston Police SWAT, FBI Houston, and all our public safety partners.

Please continue to pray for Deputy Anderson, his family, and loved ones during this difficult time. We hope the injured deputies have a speedy recovery!

HCSO Revamps Newsletter

I’m thrilled to announce that the Harris County Sheriff’s Office is revamping and invigorating our newsletter, building stronger connections with our community. Our priority is to be transparent and keep our residents informed consistently.

We know that a strong community depends on solid relationships. And we recognize your invaluable impact on the safety of our communities and Harris County’s future.

A safe and compassionate community requires constant attention, care, and collaboration. We encourage our community to subscribe to our biweekly newsletter and stay informed. Thank you for your partnership and for joining us on this journey.

Stay Informed and Be Hurricane Ready

The peak of hurricane season in Houston typically occurs from mid-August through early October. During this time, the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico conditions become most favorable for tropical storm and hurricane development. While we are experiencing record triple-digit temperatures, we encourage our residents to stay alert during the peak of hurricane season. Also, September is National Preparedness Month, and the hurricane season officially ends on November 30.

We encourage everyone to take action today to be better prepared for when the worst happens. Ensure you know what to do before, during, and after a storm.

The time to prepare is now. If you haven’t already, finalize your emergency plan, stock up on critical supplies, bookmark preparedness resources, and stay informed.

• Create an Emergency Plan: Knowing what to do protects you and your loved ones. Every family is unique and has different needs. Discuss how you will stay in contact with each other, what you will do in an emergency, and where you will go if you need to evacuate.
• Stay Informed: Closely monitor the local National Weather Service forecast and sign up for emergency alerts at Ready Harris. If you must get on the roads, check road conditions on Houston TranStar’s traffic map.
• Build a Kit: During emergencies, you may need to evacuate or hunker down at home for an extended period. Consider building a go-bag and shelter-in-place kit. Don’t panic – give yourself time to purchase disaster supplies and prepare your emergency food, water, and medical necessities.

Disasters happen; the time to prepare is now! Visit hurricanes.gov/prepare for more information, and stay safe!

Back-To-School Safety Tips

The start of a new school year brings a need for extra caution. Please help us keep our children safe by following the safety tips below:

1. Plan your route: Take the time to plan the safest route to and from school.
2. Walk in groups: Encourage your child to walk with friends or siblings to and from school.
3. Teach traffic safety: Educate your child about proper traffic safety rules, such as looking both ways before crossing the street, crossing at designated areas, and obeying traffic signals.
4. Stranger danger: Talk to your child about the importance of not talking to or accepting rides from strangers.
5. Use reflective gear: With shorter daylight hours, children need to be visible to drivers.
6. School bus safety: If your child takes the school bus, review proper bus safety rules with them.
7. Practice emergencies: Role-play different scenarios with your child, such as what to do if they get lost, if a stranger approaches them, or if they encounter dangerous animals. Ensure they know how to dial emergency numbers like 911 and have a safe place to go in emergencies.
8. Communication is vital: Maintain open lines of communication with your child. Please encourage them to share any concerns or incidents that happen during their commute. Be a listening and supportive ear, and take appropriate action if needed.

Remember, safety should always be the top priority regarding your child’s commute to and from school. I hope everyone has a safe school year!

HCSO In The News

Road to recovery: Harris County deputy shot during traffic stop talking, laughing after undergoing emergency surgery

The Harris County deputy who was shot during a traffic stop Wednesday is recovering miraculously after surgery, talking and even joking with his family, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said.

“He’s awake and alert. Laughing,” Gonzalez told he media. “He has a twin brother that’s in the sheriff’s office department as well and there was a debate as to who is the better looking one.” Sheriff Gonzalez said Deputy Joseph Anderson, 29, was conducting a traffic stop in the 13500 block of Homestead Road, in northeast Harris County, when he was fired upon.

Dozens of runaways at risk for human trafficking rescued, HCSO says

An operation led by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office helped find 31 runaway children.

“Our mission to protect our youth and ensure their safety remains a top priority, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said “This operation demonstrates our commitment to serve and protect our community’s most vulnerable especially as they face potential risks and challenges.”

Labor secretary visits Houston Women’s Center jail on tour of American Rescue Plan Act investments

Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su visited Harris County’s downtown Women’s Center jail during a trip to Houston that included touring some of the region’s investments of American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Are you looking for a job? We’re Hiring!

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

HCSO Fast Track Detention Officer Hiring Event

Join Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at a Detention Officer Hiring Event! Are you looking for a new rewarding career? Join us for a fast-track Detention Officer Hiring Event on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5749 S. Loop East Fwy, Houston, TX 77033.

We will have on-site testing, interviews, background checks, and fingerprinting! Take advantage of the $4,000 hiring bonus!

HCSO Teammate of the Week

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

“Driving through Houston on April 20 on I-10, I had a blowout on my car. I was working on changing the tire when Deputy Spivey pulled over and assisted me” said a Harris County resident.

Deputy Spivey started his law enforcement career with our agency in 2013 as a detention officer. He became a patrol deputy in 2015. He is currently assigned to our Motorist Assistance Program (MAP).

 

Sergeant Ben Russell of the Harris County Sheriff”s Office was recently honored by State Representative, Penny Morales Shaw, for his outstanding service to the Harris County Mud 150 community.

Sergeant Russell was presented with a Texas flag that had previously flown over the Texas Capitol and a Resolution from Representative Morales Shaw recognizing “his unwavering commitment to the highest standards of his profession,” and for consistently going “above and beyond the call of duty.”

Thank you to Sergeant Russell and his patrol team for helping keep our neighborhoods safe.