Sheriff Message

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – World Cup Ready: HCSO’s Plan to Keep Harris County Safe

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Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

Houston is preparing to welcome the world — and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office has been preparing right alongside it.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is bringing fans from every corner of the globe to Harris County. The FIFA Fan Festival™ Houston will run through July 19 at Aramco Arena. For more information, visit fwc26houston.com.

HCSO’s Role: At the Table and On the Ground

HCSO has not simply been preparing for the World Cup — we have been helping shape it. Our agency serves on both the Houston FIFA World Cup Executive and Leadership Committees, playing a pivotal role in developing the public safety strategy for one of the largest sporting events in the world.

When the matches begin, our presence will be felt everywhere it matters. More than 250 HCSO personnel will be deployed throughout the tournament at FIFA-sanctioned venues — including the Fan Festival, all seven matches at Houston Stadium, and designated team hotels.

Uniformed deputies, specialized tactical units, detention personnel, and dispatchers will work alongside local, state, federal, and international partners to provide security, manage crowds, regulate traffic, and respond to any public safety threat.

And our reach goes beyond Harris County. HCSO is honored to participate in the International Police Cooperation Center in Virginia — strengthening intelligence sharing across the nation to help keep Houston safe throughout the World Cup.

“The FIFA World Cup will attract hundreds of thousands of fans and visitors to Harris County, contributing to our tradition of hosting major sporting events such as the Super Bowl and college basketball and football championship games. We encourage everyone to enjoy the festivities and take pride in our community’s legacy. Above all, HCSO remains dedicated to ensuring public safety during the World Cup — your security is our top priority.” — Assistant Chief Saul Suarez

With summer heat, hurricane season, and significant traffic increases expected on match days, HCSO encourages everyone to plan ahead:

  • Stay informed about weather conditions before heading out
  • Allow extra travel time — arrive at the stadium as early as possible
  • Follow official venue guidance and stay aware of your surroundings
  • Report suspicious activity immediately — call 911 for emergencies or 713-221-6000 for non-emergencies

Protecting Our Community: Fraud, Scams & Human Trafficking

As excitement builds around the World Cup, HCSO is also focused on the public safety concerns that can accompany large-scale international events — including fraud, scams, and human trafficking.

On June 4, Assistant Chief John Nanny represented HCSO at a joint press conference reaffirming our commitment to protecting every person in Harris County during the World Cup. Our investigators are actively monitoring online platforms where traffickers increasingly recruit and exploit victims. Community awareness remains one of the most effective tools in identifying and preventing exploitation.

Warning signs include suspicious job offers, social media contacts promising gifts or opportunities, individuals who appear fearful or controlled, or someone whose identification or phone is being held by another person. Parents are encouraged to talk with their children and teens about online safety — more than half of domestic minor trafficking victims are recruited through social media.

If You See Something — Say Something

Community Resources — Help Is Here

If you or someone you know needs support, these local organizations are ready to help:

  • The Landing: Serves survivors of human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation in Houston | thelanding.org
  • YMCA International Services: Victim assistance and support for trafficking survivors | 24/7 Hotline: 832-808-3909 | ymcahouston.org
  • United Against Human Trafficking: Education, advocacy, and direct survivor support | 713-874-0290 | uaht.org
  • No Trafficking Zone: Works to prevent, combat, and eradicate human trafficking nationwide | notraffickingzone.org

The World Cup is a celebration — and Harris County has a proud legacy of hosting the world’s biggest moments. HCSO is committed to making sure every fan, every family, and every visitor experiences this city at its very best.

Enjoy the World Cup, Harris County. We will be watching over you.

HCSO In the News

Click2Houston: FBI officials taking steps to prevent ‘lone offender’ threats ahead of FIFA World Cup matches in Houston

HOUSTON – With the FIFA World Cup 2026 set to arrive in Houston in just days, federal law enforcement officials are warning the public to stay alert and report suspicious activity as massive crowds begin pouring into the city.

More than half a million visitors are expected in Houston during the tournament, prompting heightened security preparations from federal, state, and local agencies.

Fox26: Houston drivers worried about World Cup traffic? Here’s what transportation officials want you to know

HOUSTON – The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway, and for many Houstonians, excitement about the global event comes with one major question: What will all those visitors mean for traffic?

Transportation officials say there will likely be more congestion during the tournament, particularly around match venues, entertainment districts and other major destinations. But they say drivers can take steps now to help avoid some of the biggest headaches.

Chron: Houston police deploying drones as World Cup counterterrorism measure

Houston officials are well-versed in many of the public health and safety challenges ahead for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, from weather concerns to traffic headaches. One newer consideration for Houston? Combating potential acts of terrorism.

Houston Mayor John Whitmire said Tuesday the city will use “drone surveillance” and “drone protection” to ensure greater security and protect against terrorism at the World Cup.

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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.

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Juan Celestial

A supervisor recently shared:

“A commendation is in order for Deputy Celestial for his outstanding judgment, professionalism, and dedication to duty. Deputy Celestial conducted himself in a manner that reflects great credit upon himself, his peers, and the department. His actions exemplify the highest standards of service and leadership, and he should be given strong consideration during his next promotional opportunity. Semper Fidelis.”

Deputy Celestial has dedicated an extraordinary 29 years of service to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office — beginning his law enforcement career in 1994 as a certified officer. Over nearly three decades, he has built a reputation for professionalism, sound judgment, and unwavering commitment to duty. Currently, he serves in the Maritime Tactical Operations Section (MTOS).

Deputy Celestial, 29 years of showing up, doing the right thing, and setting the standard for those around you. Thank you for your decades of service to Harris County. We are incredibly proud to have you on this team.

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office recognize Deputy Emily Rosales

A Harris County resident recently shared:

💬 “Our car was rear ended on HWY 290 near the 1960 exit. Deputy Rosales came on the scene and helped get everybody situated safely. She was cordial, friendly, a very calming influence in a hectic situation. She is a terrific officer and a credit to your department.”

Deputy Rosales began her journey with HCSO in 2020 as a Detention Officer — learning the foundation of this work from the inside out. In October 2025, she proudly graduated from the Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) and joined District 5 as a patrol deputy.

In just a short time on patrol, she has already shown exactly what this badge stands for — showing up to a stressful, chaotic scene on HWY 290 and turning it into a moment of calm, care, and professionalism that a family will never forget. Six years with HCSO. A lifetime of impact ahead.

Deputy Rosales, we are proud to have you on this team and we cannot wait to see everything you accomplish in your career.

VIDEO: Where there is light, there is hope.

Where there is light, there is hope.

More than four decades after Stephen and Hope Ellis were brutally murdered inside their West Harris County apartment, their family is still searching for answers.

Stephen and Hope were last seen alive on December 5, 1982. Three days later, friends discovered the young couple deceased inside their home. Hope had been stabbed multiple times, and Stephen had been shot and stabbed.

For Hope’s family, the pain has never gone away. Neither has their hope for justice.

If you have any information about the murders of Stephen and Hope Ellis, no matter how small it may seem, please come forward.

  • Crime Stoppers: 713-222-TIPS (8477)
  • Up to $10,000 reward available
  • HCSO Cold Case Unit: 713-274-9777

Reel: Be prepared for hurricane season

As hurricane and severe weather season approaches, first responders are training to ensure they are ready when Harris County residents need them most.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office participated in a multi-agency flood rescue exercise at John Paul’s Landing alongside the Texas Department of Public Safety, Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office, and Texas State Guard.

From water rescue operations to interagency communication, this training helps strengthen the skills, coordination, and preparedness needed to respond during flood emergencies.

When disaster strikes, preparation saves lives.

Thank you for attending our HCSO Career Fair

Thank you to everyone who attended today’s HCSO Career Fair!

We enjoyed meeting so many individuals interested in serving their community and exploring a career with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

A special thank you to our Recruiting Team and staff who helped make today’s event a success.

Still looking for a rewarding career? There’s still time to join our team. Call 713-877-5250 | HCSOJobs.com

Reel: Auto Theft Unit Recovers 9 Stolen Vehicles

🚔 Outstanding work by our Auto Theft Unit and partnering deputies. Their patience and persistence led to the recovery of 9 stolen vehicles valued at nearly $500,000 and the arrest of multiple suspects.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Mental Health Awareness Month: You Are Not Alone. Help Is Here.

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Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

Mental health touches every one of us — and in a community as large and diverse as Harris County, knowing where to turn can change everything.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office wants every resident to hear this clearly: support is available, stigma should never stand in the way of getting help, and no one has to face a difficult moment alone.

Director Thomas McNeese of HCSO’s Personnel Support Division said it best — mental health is not separate from the rest of our lives. It affects our families, our work, our physical health, and our community. The pressures of everyday life — financial stress, grief, trauma, caregiving, even a difficult weather season — can weigh on anyone. Awareness helps people ask for help sooner. And asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It is one of the bravest things a person can do.

How HCSO Shows Up

When deputies respond to someone in crisis, the goal is always the same: safety, compassion, and connection to the right resources. HCSO has invested in specialized programs to make that possible.

The Crisis Intervention Response Team (CIRT) pairs a specially trained deputy with a master’s-level crisis clinician from The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD — so when someone is struggling, they are met with both protection and care.

The Clinician Officer Remote Evaluation (CORE) program allows deputies in the field to consult with behavioral health clinicians remotely, ensuring that even in the most unexpected moments, the right support is never far away.

These programs exist because we believe that people in crisis deserve to be met with compassion — not just a badge.

Resources Available to You — Right Now

You do not have to wait for a crisis to reach out. These resources are available 24/7:

  • Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD: Harris County’s local mental health authority. 713-970-7000 | Toll-free: 1-866-970-7000 | Text: 832-479-2135 | Crisis text: 988
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 | Chat at 988lifeline.org Free, confidential, and available around the clock.
  • 2-1-1 Texas: Call 2-1-1 or 877-541-7905 for local community resources. For mental health and substance use support, select your language and choose Option 5.
  • SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-4357 | Text your ZIP code to 435748 | findtreatment.gov
  • Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1 | Text: 838255
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-7233 | Text START to 88788 | thehotline.org
  • HCSO Crime Victim Assistance Unit: For victims, survivors, and families impacted by crime. 📞 713-274-9369 | VictimAssistanceUnit@Sheriff.hctx.net | Text in English or Spanish: 832-470-6772

Mental health awareness is not only about crisis response. It is about prevention, education, and making sure people know where to turn before problems become emergencies. This month — and every month — HCSO is committed to showing up for this community in every way that counts.

Hurricane Season Starts June 1: Harris County, Are You Ready?

Here in Harris County, we know better than most what a powerful storm can do. We have lived it. And the Harris County Sheriff’s Office has one message for our community as we head into the 2026 hurricane season: prepare now — before the storm ever has a name.

Waiting until a hurricane watch is issued is waiting too long. The time to stock supplies, review your evacuation route, check on your elderly neighbors, and make a family communication plan is today — not when the wind starts picking up.

A basic emergency kit should include water and non-perishable food for at least three days, medications, important documents, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, a phone charger, and a plan for your pets. Small steps taken now can make an enormous difference when it matters most.

Know your zone. Familiarize yourself with Harris County’s evacuation zones and pay close attention to guidance from county and city officials when a storm approaches. Follow HCSO on social media and monitor local news for real-time updates.

When a storm threatens Harris County, HCSO will be ready. Our deputies and first responders will be positioned across the county — supporting evacuations, maintaining public safety, and responding to emergencies as conditions allow. We train for these moments. We prepare for these moments. Because protecting this community is not just our job — it is our commitment.

Harris County is resilient. We have proven that before, and we will prove it again. But resilience starts with preparation. Make your plan. Know your route. Look out for one another.

🔗 For preparedness resources, visit ReadyHarris.org.

HCSO In the News

Community Impact: Harris County approves additional $19M for public safety facilities improvements

Harris County Commissioners Court allocated an additional $19 million to the Harris County Sheriff’s and Fire Marshal’s offices to support ongoing capital improvement projects across eight law enforcement facilities.

The May 14 vote increased funding from $100 million to $119.73 million for the projects, which aim to enhance resiliency and technology at facilities in the HCSO’s patrol districts, according to agenda documents.

Click2Houston: ‘We will never give up’: Memorial aims to generate tips in Harris County father’s murder case

HOUSTON – Nearly three years after Austin Kanuch was stabbed to death in his sleep, his family is turning grief into determination, unveiling a memorial bench in Cypress Park while a $40,000 reward remains on the table for information leading to an arrest.

The bench is part of the We Remember Memorial created by Tom Ramsey’s office in partnership with Crime Stoppers of Houston. It features a QR code that pulls up details about Kanuch’s unsolved murder, giving the community an immediate way to learn about the case and submit tips.

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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.

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Juan Celestial

A supervisor recently shared:

“A commendation is in order for Deputy Celestial for his outstanding judgment, professionalism, and dedication to duty. Deputy Celestial conducted himself in a manner that reflects great credit upon himself, his peers, and the department. His actions exemplify the highest standards of service and leadership, and he should be given strong consideration during his next promotional opportunity. Semper Fidelis.”

Deputy Celestial has dedicated an extraordinary 29 years of service to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office — beginning his law enforcement career in 1994 as a certified officer. Over nearly three decades, he has built a reputation for professionalism, sound judgment, and unwavering commitment to duty. Currently, he serves in the Maritime Tactical Operations Section (MTOS).

Deputy Celestial, 29 years of showing up, doing the right thing, and setting the standard for those around you. Thank you for your decades of service to Harris County. We are incredibly proud to have you on this team.

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Dane Simpson

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“I’m writing to commend Deputy Simpson for his professionalism and courteous conduct during a traffic stop. Although it was very early in the morning, Deputy Simpson’s approach was respectful, calm, and professional. He explained my warning was for a defective license plate light — and even took the time to explain why it matters. What impressed me most was his customer service and respectful demeanor. Deputy Simpson represented his department positively and professionally, and I felt it was important to share my appreciation.”

Deputy Simpson has been proudly serving HCSO for nearly 5 years. He began his patrol career 3 years ago. In just under five years, Deputy Simpson has already shown what it means to represent this badge with professionalism, patience, and genuine care for the people he serves.

Deputy Simpson, we are proud to have you on this team!

Welcome to the Agency!

HCSO Command Staff proudly welcomed the Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) Cadets of Class B1-2026 to the agency.

66 dedicated cadets embark on a remarkable journey defined by service, courage, and a commitment to protecting the people of Harris County.

Best of luck to each of you—your future starts now.

Click It or Ticket

From May 18th through May 31st, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office will join law enforcement agencies across Texas for the “Click It or Ticket” campaign with increased seat belt enforcement throughout Harris County.

Seat belts reduce the risk of serious injury or death by nearly 50%. One simple click could save your life.

Buckle up every ride, every time.

Career Day at Boone Elementary

On Friday May 15, 2026, Harris County Sheriff’s Office District 4’s Community Engagement was honored to participate in Career Day at Boone Elementary!

Deputy Charles Hill had the opportunity to speak with students about careers in law enforcement, the importance of education, and the many ways deputies serve and protect the community each day.

We appreciate Boone Elementary for the invitation and for providing an opportunity to inspire and engage with the next generation of leaders. Investing in our youth through mentorship, encouragement, and positive interaction continues to make a lasting impact in our community.

Wear Your Seat Belt!

POV: your local deputy begging you to just wear the seat belt already 😭🚔

Our deputies have seen firsthand how fast a normal drive can turn into a life-changing crash.

Buckle up every ride, every time.

Honoring Austin Kanuch

HCSO stood alongside the family of Austin Kanuch to renew the call for justice.

Austin was murdered in his home in September 2023. His killer is still out there, and his family continues to wait for answers.

In honor of Austin’s life and memory, Crime Stoppers of Houston hosted a memorial bench dedication at Cypress Park.

This bench serves as more than a memorial — it is a reminder that Austin will not be forgotten, and neither will the pursuit of justice in his case.

If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS. Tips can remain anonymous.

Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office honor the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities whose voices, values, and cultural richness uplift our society.

We recognize their contributions to public service and beyond.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez — HCSO’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team Reaches Historic Milestone

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Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

Since its inception in 2020, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Violent Criminal Apprehension Team known as VCAT, has done something remarkable. In five years, this small, highly specialized unit has tracked down and arrested more than 500 violent fugitives, many of them wanted for murder.

On Thursday, May 12, Undersheriff Tommy Diaz stood before reporters to mark the milestone on behalf of Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the entire agency, and he was quick to put the number in perspective.

“When people hear that number, they hear statistics,” Diaz said. “But for us, every single arrest tells a story. It is a mother finally getting a phone call she has waited years for. It is a family finally believing justice may be possible. It is a dangerous individual no longer walking the streets of Harris County.”

VCAT operates at the intersection of homicide investigations and fugitive apprehension. Once a murder warrant is signed, the team steps in alongside homicide investigators to see the case through to an arrest. As Sergeant A. Chapa put it simply: “A homicide is not closed until that suspect is in custody.”

The suspects they pursue are not low-level offenders. They are, in Chapa’s words, “the worst of the worst” – Fugitives who run, cross state lines, and in many cases have nothing left to lose. The work requires long hours of surveillance, meticulous planning, and high-risk operations that often unfold without any public recognition. Missed holidays. Late nights. Danger at every door. The team takes it all in stride because, as Undersheriff Diaz noted, they understand exactly what is at stake.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez reflected on what the milestone truly represents. “These individuals pose the greatest threat in our community,” Gonzalez said, “and I am very grateful that our VCAT members do such an incredible job of putting their lives on the line and protecting our community.”

For Detective Ramirez, who has been with the unit since the beginning, the work is a source of deep professional pride. “My teammates and I take a lot of pride in that — that we are able to get the job done and get these people to justice.”

Five hundred arrests. Five hundred violent suspects removed from Harris County streets and beyond. Five hundred moments where a family received the call they had been waiting for. And according to Undersheriff Diaz, the mission is far from over. VCAT will continue pursuing violent fugitives, supporting victims’ families, and doing the quiet, dangerous, necessary work that makes this community safer — one arrest at a time.

Join the HCSO Family

If you have ever thought about wearing this badge, now is your moment. The door is open, the opportunity is real, and Harris County needs people like you.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the nation, but what truly sets us apart is our people and our purpose. Every day, our deputies, detention officers, and civilian staff show up to serve more than 4.7 million residents across one of the most diverse counties in America. A career with HCSO is more than a job – It’s a calling that comes with real growth opportunities, competitive pay and benefits, and the chance to make a genuine difference in your community. Whether you’re just starting out or ready for a new chapter, there’s a place for you here.

The May 9 Career Fair at the HCSO Academy was something special. Candidates from across the Houston area showed up ready – résumés in hand, questions prepared, and a clear sense of purpose. Recruiters were on hand to walk attendees through available positions, answer questions about the application process, and give an inside look at life at HCSO. If you missed it, don’t worry – another opportunity is right around the corner.

On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, HCSO will host a Detention Officer Career Fair from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 5749 South Loop East, Houston, TX 77033. This one is specifically for those interested in becoming a Detention Officer. The best part? You can show up, apply, and take the exam all in the same day — no runaround, no waiting, just one focused event designed to get you started as efficiently as possible. For more information, call 713-877-5250 or visit HCSOJobs.com.

If your goal is to become a peace officer, BPOC Testing is your pathway. Testing dates are running through May and June, and spots fill up fast — so don’t wait. To get registered, reach out to Zackarie.Henry@Sheriff.hctx.net or call 713-877-5250.

This could be the moment that changes everything. A career with HCSO means showing up for your community, building something that lasts, and being part of a team that has your back every single day. If this feels like it was written for you — it was. Know someone who would be a great fit? Share this with them. The best candidates are often just one conversation away.

HCSO In the News

Click2Houston: Stolen checks, mail and counterfeit postal keys found during Houston game room bust

Federal investigators say a large-scale operation in Houston targeting illegal game rooms uncovered stolen mail, counterfeit postal keys, checks, and other evidence tied to mail theft and identity fraud investigations.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, along with several federal, state, and local agencies, conducted surge operations across southwest Houston focused on illegal activity connected to game rooms.

ABC13: 4-year-old boy reunited with family after being found wandering in west Harris Co. overnight: HCSO

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — Authorities said a 4-year-old boy has been reunited with his family after the child was found wandering alone in west Harris County overnight.

According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call at about 12:50 a.m. on Tuesday in the 6600 block of Highway 6 near Schiller Road. At the scene, deputies discovered what they initially described as a 3-year-old girl found alone.

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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.

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Victor Plancarte

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“I was heading home after dropping off my husband (who is also an officer with Hempstead PD) at work when I got a flat tire. Concerned for the safety of my 3-month-old son and myself, I called 911. Deputy Plancarte arrived very quickly. He was kind, attentive, and efficient in resolving the situation. He truly went above and beyond for us, and I will never forget his help. It’s people like him who make Harris County a better place. Thank you for your service, Deputy Plancarte. May God bless you tenfold!”

Deputy Plancarte began his law enforcement career in 2017 as a detention officer with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. In 2019, he transitioned to deputy and has proudly served Harris County for nearly 8 years.

Currently assigned to District 5 Day Shift, Deputy Plancarte brings the same dedication, compassion, and professionalism to every call — whether it’s a major incident or a mother stranded on the side of the road with a 3-month-old baby.

Deputy Plancarte, thank you!

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Brian Kelly.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“Deputy Brian Kelly could have simply referred us to the court as a civil matter — as most would have done. Instead, he went above and beyond, helping us resolve a situation we had been struggling with for many months — all in a single day.

He handled our situation as though it were just as important as any other emergency. He was fair, professional, and thorough — with precision, care, and integrity.

In today’s world, law enforcement faces so much scrutiny and disrespect. Our experience with Deputy Kelly was a sharp reminder of just how wrong those attitudes are. He is precisely the sort of person we all hope will show up when we are in need. He is what we, the public, hope to see in our officers.”

Deputy Brian Kelly has proudly served HCSO for 13 years. He spent approximately 9 years assigned to District 2 Airline Contract before transitioning to District 1 Airline Contract. For over a decade, Deputy Kelly has shown up every single day with the same professionalism, integrity, and dedication that this community deserves.

Thank you, Deputy Kelly!

Congratulations, Detective Sanchez.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is honored to share that Homicide Detective Jose Sanchez received the prestigious Fenner Weller Award at the Crime Stoppers of Houston Heroes Awards Gala — and the story behind it is one worth telling.

For an entire year, Detective Sanchez quietly and methodically built a case against an organized criminal crew responsible for a 2023 gas station robbery and a horrifying 2024 home invasion, where victims were held in their own home and tortured for over an hour while suspects demanded money and jewelry.

When the time came, the team moved swiftly — 10 suspects arrested and 5 residential search warrants executed on the same day.

Congratulations, Detective Sanchez — Harris County is safer because of you. Thank you to Crime Stoppers of Houston for this well-deserved recognition.

Today’s graduates. Tomorrow’s leaders

Congratulations to the graduating class of the HCSO Sheriff’s Youth Advisory Council! These incredible young people spent the year tackling tough community issues and growing into the leaders Harris County needs.

Thank you to Crime Stoppers of Houston, Walmart, and Pollo Bravo for making today’s celebration so special!

Scam Alert!

A fake court document is circulating that looks very official — it includes case numbers, court dates, and even a QR code demanding immediate payment for traffic violations. Do not fall for it.

HCSO will never demand payment through a QR code, threaten you with arrest over the phone, or pressure you to pay immediately.

If you or someone you know receives something like this, do NOT pay, do NOT scan the QR code, and please report it right away.

Call: 713-221-6000

Stay safe, and please share so your neighbors know.

Your law enforcement career starts here.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is hosting Basic Peace Officer Cadet (BPOC) Testing — and spots are filling up fast!

If you have ever thought about a career in law enforcement, this is your sign to take the first step.

HCSO Training Academy: 2316 Atascocita Rd

  • Upcoming Testing Dates: May & June 2026
  • For more information: call 713-877-5250

Don’t wait — spots are limited and fill quickly!

The 2026 Hurricane Season officially begins on June 1

The 2026 Hurricane Season officially begins June 1 — and Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office want Harris County to be prepared long before the first storm forms. History has shown us that disasters don’t wait, and neither should we.

Now is the time to:

  • Make a family emergency plan:
  • Build or restock your emergency kit:
  • Know your evacuation routes:
  • Stay informed with reliable sources:

Don’t wait for a storm to remind you. Prepare today so you can protect the people you love tomorrow.

Visit hurricanes.gov/prepare for tips and resources.

Recognizing Detention Officer Arredondo

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is proud to recognize Detention Officer Arredondo for his exceptional vigilance and professionalism at the 1200 Jail facility.

During a routine observation, D.O. Arredondo’s sharp instincts and situational awareness led to a swift, coordinated response that directly contributed to the safety and security of the facility — protecting both staff and the people under our care.

This is the kind of work that often goes unseen — but never goes unnoticed by us. D.O. Arredondo, we are proud to have you on this team.

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez — Always in Our Hearts

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Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage

Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

There are moments in this work that remind us why we serve. The 2026 Harris County Sheriff’s Foundation Fallen Peace Officers’ Memorial was one of them.

For nearly five decades, the HCSO Honor Guard has carried forward a sacred tradition — standing at attention, presenting arms, and ensuring that the men and women who gave their lives in service to this community are never forgotten. This year was no different. And yet, every year, it means something more.

The ceremony brought together law enforcement officers, community leaders, and the families of our fallen — united in grief, in gratitude, and in the unspoken understanding that some sacrifices are simply beyond measure. Undersheriff Thomas Diaz delivered remarks on behalf of the agency, reaffirming what every person in that room already knows: the Harris County Sheriff’s Office does not forget its own.

For HCSO and the Harris County Constables’ Offices, this memorial is more than a ceremony. It is a covenant. A promise made year after year to the families who continue living with the weight of loss — that their loved ones did not die in anonymity, that their names will be spoken, and that their legacies will endure in every badge worn and every call answered in their honor.

To those families, we offer our deepest sympathy and our most sincere gratitude. The debt we owe our fallen can never be repaid in full. But we can honor it — not just on this day, but in every day that follows.

This year, that commitment carried us beyond Harris County. HCSO joined agencies from across Texas in Austin for the 2026 Texas Peace Officers’ Memorial — standing shoulder to shoulder with the law enforcement family to honor the fallen from every corner of our state.

And this year, three names were added to that memorial. Three members of our HCSO family, now etched in stone:

🕯️ Detention Officer Robert Perez
🕯️ Deputy Shaun Christopher Waters
🕯️ Deputy Bryan “Brad” Sweetman

Their names are permanent now. Carved into stone so that no one — not time, not distance, not the rush of daily life — can erase what they meant to this agency and to the people they served.

They are no longer with us in the way we wish they could be. But they are present in the culture of this agency, in the values we uphold, in the bonds that hold this law enforcement family together through the hardest of days.

Gone, but never forgotten. Always in our hearts. 💙🕯️

Harris County Peace Officers’ Memorial Service 2026

“We Are Coming for You”: Operation Felon Hard Times

There is a warrant list in Harris County. And one by one, we are working through every name on it.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office, alongside the FBI, DEA Houston Division, U.S. Marshals Service, and the Texas Department of Public Safety, announced the results of Operation Felon Hard Times — a multi-agency warrant roundup weeks in the making and built on one simple principle: violent fugitives do not get to disappear.

During April, law enforcement made 252 arrests and cleared 381 warrants — cases involving murder, sexual assault, aggravated robbery, and crimes against children. Behind every one of those numbers is a victim — a real person whose life was forever changed by violence.

Undersheriff Tommy Diaz put it plainly: “Every one of those numbers represents a victim — someone whose life was changed by violence. These arrests don’t undo that, but they help stop the next crime from happening.”

The Cases That Stood Out

  • Corey Comeaux, 24: was wanted for the March 24 shooting death of 31-year-old Joseph Manuel Jr. in Beaumont. On April 8, the U.S. Marshals’ Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force located Comeaux in the Houston area and took him into custody. He is currently held in Jefferson County Jail on a $1.5 million bond.
  • Carlos Sanchez, 43: was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after allegedly shooting his own stepdaughter in the face — because he believed she was interfering with his illegal rooster-fighting ring. On April 10, the Violent Person Warrant Task Force located and arrested Sanchez. He is now held in Harris County Jail.
  • Luis Antonio Aguilar Nava, 34: was wanted for a fatal stabbing in Pasadena on April 14. The Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force tracked him to a motel in Southeast Houston. On April 15, the task force surrounded the location and Nava surrendered without incident. He is held at Harris County Jail without bond.
  • Joe Nathan Ball, 33: had been wanted in Washington State for the sexual assault of a minor, family violence, and harassment. He left, apparently believing distance would protect him from accountability. He was wrong. Working alongside the Bremerton Police Department, HCSO units located Ball at a residence in Spring, Texas, surrounded the home, and took him into custody without incident. He is now awaiting extradition back to Washington to face those charges.

The Message Behind the Mission

Operations like this one do not happen by accident. They happen because agencies pick up the phone, share intelligence, and show up for each other — and more importantly, for the communities they serve.

Undersheriff Diaz was direct in his message to survivors: “We see you. This work is for you.”

And to anyone in Harris County still carrying an active warrant — the message was equally direct: “There is no place to hide. We will work across county and state lines to find you. If you have a warrant in Harris County, we are coming for you.”

HCSO In the News

Click2Houston: Off-duty HCSO deputy shot while sleeping in Houston home, officials say

An off-duty Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputy was seriously wounded in a drive-by shooting while sleeping at his north Houston home early Sunday morning.

KHOU11: Man arrested after pedestrian killed in hit-and-run crash along Tomball Parkway, HCSO says

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A man has been arrested after a man was killed in a hit-and-run crash along the Tomball Parkway feeder road Thursday night, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

The crash happened at 7:55 p.m. along the feeder road at Grant Road.

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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.

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Sergeant Travon Graves

A Harris County family recently shared:

“I would like to recognize Sergeant Graves for his prompt action and the compassion he showed toward an inmate. After the inmate’s parents submitted an “Inmate Care” form, Sergeant Graves personally assisted the individual and communicated directly with the family, assuring them that he was working to obtain a Bible. Throughout the interaction, he demonstrated patience, professionalism, and genuine kindness. His efforts did not go unnoticed and are sincerely appreciated.”

Sergeant Graves began his law enforcement career in 2017 at Harris County Precinct 4 and has been a proud member of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office since 2020. In February, he was assigned to District 4 as a Patrol Supervisor. Sergeant Graves exemplifies what it means to lead with both authority and compassion — ensuring that every person in his care is treated with dignity and respect.

Sergeant Graves, thank you for going above and beyond. Your kindness, patience, and dedication to doing the right thing reflect the very best of HCSO. We are proud to have you on this team!

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Sergeant Billy Stephens and Deputy Elias Sandoval.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“Sergeant Stevens and Deputy Sandoval with the livestock department are honestly top tier. If my horse gets picked up again, I hope it’s by them. 10/10 rating, 5 stars total, will recommend. They were both so nice and helpful, making an already stressful situation so easy. Deputy Sandoval even went the extra mile to help me secure the area so the horse wouldn’t escape again. Honestly, the nicest gesture ever, and it did not leave me to fend for myself. Definitely the best people in law enforcement I have ever met. Forever grateful to both of them.”

Sergeant Billy Stephens has proudly served HCSO since December 1997 — spending 18 of his nearly 29 years with the Mounted Patrol Unit alongside his partner, June Bug, a 20-year-old Buckskin Quarter Horse.

Deputy Elias Sandoval brings 12 years of law enforcement experience to the Mounted Patrol Unit — 10 of those with HCSO — riding alongside his partner, Jesse, a 19-year-old Buckskin Quarter Horse mare and seasoned rodeo veteran.

Sergeant Stephens and Deputy Sandoval, thank you for showing our community what HCSO is truly made of — not just doing the job, but doing it with heart, patience, and genuine care.

Harris County is lucky to have both of you!

Active Attack Drill

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office, along with partner agencies, gathered at Barbara Jordan Park in North Harris County for an Active Attack Drill.

When every second counts, preparation saves lives. Our teams reviewed real-world scenarios, refined their response protocols, and enhanced the interagency coordination that keeps Harris County safe every day. A huge thank you to all the participating agencies for showing up and putting in the effort.

This is what it looks like when agencies train, communicate, and work together to protect our community.

You are Invited to Join HCSO

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is hosting a Career Fair — and you can apply, test, and take the next step toward a meaningful career all in one day.

We are hiring Detention Officers, Communications Officers, and more!

Just show up. Apply. That’s it.

713-877-5250 | HCSOJobs.com

Missing in Southeast Texas Day 2026

Families searching for missing loved ones are not alone.

Join us for Missing in Southeast Texas Day 2026, a free event dedicated to helping families connect, share information, and access critical resources in missing-persons cases.

Saturday, May 2, 2026

10 AM – 3 PM

Children’s Assessment Center 2500 Bolsover St., Houston

Attendees can:

  • Enter information into NamUs
  • Provide DNA samples
  • Connect with support organizations
  • Report missing family members

Together, we can help bring missing loved ones home.

For more information: centerforthemissing.org

Walmart BBQ Battle & Block Party

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office participated in the Walmart BBQ Battle & Block Party, and it was an absolute blast!

Champion pitmasters, incredible food, great music, and most importantly, amazing people. There is nothing quite like getting out into the community, connecting face-to-face, and sharing a great meal.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello to your deputies.