Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Honoring a Legacy: Deputy Rondald Bates’ Service Remembered
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Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage
Honoring Deputy Rondald Bates
On February 6th, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office gathered to celebrate the remarkable legacy of Deputy Rondald Bates. He dedicated over 30 years to serving Harris County before his death in the line of duty on February 10, 2024, from injuries sustained in a car crash. He joined the HCSO in 1992 and served with honor until his death. The ceremony was a powerful tribute, highlighting the impact of his service and the inspiration he continues to provide.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez presented Deputy Derrick Bates with his late father’s badge number alongside his mother and sister. This gesture symbolizes Deputy Rondald Bates’ commitment to service that will live on through his son.
HCSO deputies and friends gathered to remember Ronald Bates by sharing stories of their favorite memories with him. They spoke of his integrity and how he always did the right thing, even when nobody was watching. The outpouring of love was a testament to the deep connections he built throughout his career.
Now serving in Patrol Bureau District 5, Deputy Derrick Bates proudly carries his father’s badge, continuing his legacy of service and embodying the values his father instilled. The ceremony served as a testament to Deputy Rondald Bates’s lasting mark on the HCSO and the community he served, a mark that will never be forgotten.
WATCH: Honoring Deputy Rondald Bates
Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring HCSO’s Leaders and Trailblazers
Black History Month is a time to recognize the contributions of Black Americans and the lasting impact they’ve made in every field, including law enforcement.
At the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, we take this opportunity to celebrate the achievements of Black professionals who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting our communities.
The contributions of Black law enforcement officers and staff at HCSO are nothing short of extraordinary. Their leadership and commitment to justice help strengthen our agency and foster trust with the diverse communities we serve. They are mentors, role models, and trailblazers, paving the way for future generations.
HCSO is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion within our ranks. We support initiatives that promote leadership development and career advancement for Black law enforcement professionals. Through conversations and community engagement, we work to ensure that our agency reflects the diversity of Harris County and upholds the values of fairness and respect.
This Black History Month, we honor the legacy of those who fought for justice and equality, and we celebrate the leaders who continue to shape our agency and community. Their contributions motivate us to build a brighter future where every individual feels safe, respected, and valued.
WATCH: Meet Sgt. G. Temple
WATCH: Meet Major Earl Dean
HCSO In the News
Fox26: Major Ben Katrib joins Behind Breaking Bond
Harris County Sheriff’s Office Major Ben Katrib, joins FOX 26’s Randy Wallace and Houston Crime Stoppers’ Andy Kahan, to discuss everything that goes into investigating homicides.
ABC13: HCSO cracks down on illegal and dangerous boarding homes, shutting down 2 this year
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — So far this year, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office has shut down two boarding homes that were operating illegally and without a license.
The first one was found in southwest Harris County on Bacard Lane. There, eight people were removed, two of which were bedridden and one who had to be hospitalized.
Houston Public Media: Children’s Assessment Center seeks to help victims of human trafficking
The Bayou City owns a dubious distinction: it consistently ranks as one of the top cities in the United States for human trafficking.
Sadly, you don’t have to look far to see examples of it. And the numbers are stark. Anthony Aulds is a Sergeant with the Harris County Sheriff’s Department. He notes there are “approximately 79,000 minors who are victims of sex trafficking” in Texas alone.
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Teammate of the Week
Harris County Sheriff’s Office Teammates 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.
“Sgt. Bigham, Sgt. Castaneda and Deputy Casas at Baker St are the epitome of the representation of the HCSO core values,” said a Harris County resident. “The reciprocated respect that they showed me was beyond any expectation I could have ever had.”
- Sgt. Gilbert Bigham has dedicated 23 years to serving our community at HCSO.
- Sgt. Oscar Castaneda and Deputy Edward Casas joined our agency 12 years ago.
Thank you for your service and for keeping our community safe!
“I want to take a moment to thank Senior Crash Investigator Lawrence Hernandez for his kindness during my stop. When he pulled me over, I was startled but remained calm. He explained that I didn’t use my turn signal and then kindly issued a warning,” said a Harris County resident. “I truly appreciated his firm yet understanding approach, which made me feel safe. Thank you, Investigator Hernandez, for doing your job with compassion. May God bless and protect you as you serve the community.”
Senior Crash Investigator Lawrence Hernandez joined our agency 34 years ago and he is currently protecting our community in the HCSO Vehicular Crimes Division in the Hit & Run Section.
WATCH: Cypress Triple Murder: $25,000 Reward
Do you recognize this suspect? New surveillance footage has been released in the tragic triple murder and arson case in Cypress.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI Houston are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for any information that leads to an arrest.
Kelly Masciarelli, Kolin Foster, and Cameryn Richard lost their lives in this senseless act of violence. Someone out there knows something—help us bring justice to their families.
Call 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit tips at tips.fbi.gov. All tips are anonymous.
The HCSO 2024 Annual Report is Now Available
We’re pleased to announce that the Harris County Sheriff’s Office 2024 Annual Report is now available!
Under the direction of Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, this report provides a glimpse into the dedication and efforts of our certified, detention, and professional teammates who are committed to our values and pursuit of excellence.
We encourage you to read the report and reflect on the accomplishments and challenges we faced together in 2024. It’s a testament to our entire team’s hard work, dedication, and resilience.
HCSO’s Boarding Home Detail Keeps Our Community Safe
HCSO’s Boarding Home Detail swiftly protected vulnerable residents! Yesterday, they responded with Adult Protective Services and the Fire Marshal’s Office to an unpermitted boarding home with multiple violations. One tenant was hospitalized, and four others were safely rehoused. The owner was charged. Boarding Home Permits are required by law in Harris County.
Report Suspicious Activity. If you suspect a boarding home is operating without a permit or has unsafe conditions, please report it to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at:
- Phone: 832-927-2975
- Website: bit.ly/3i5NvEGA
- Email: Boardinghomes@Sheriff.hctx.net
Together, we can protect our community and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
Congratulations to our 62 newest Detention Officers!
Congratulations to our 62 newest Detention Officers!
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the HCSO team are incredibly proud of your hard work and dedication.
Are you ready to join our ranks? Visit HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250.
The 76th Annual Pony Express
The 76th Annual Pony Express began with our send-off at the Waller County Fair Grounds. A big thank you to Trail of Life Cowboy Church for feeding us a hardy breakfast while all teams tacked up their horses and prepared for the big ride.
Harris County Sheriff’s Office Junior Mounted Posse did another outstanding job with the flag presentation and our great National Anthem.
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Follow @HCSO_COMMUNITY_ENGAGEMENT to stay updated on community events, safety tips, and ways to partner with us for a safer Harris County.