Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – Celebrating Women’s History and Welcoming the Houston Rodeo Festivities
Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:
The Houston Livestock and Rodeo Show celebrates our region’s rich heritage and showcases our community’s unity and spirit. Our participation underscores our commitment to engaging with the public and strengthening bonds with our fellow Houstonians.
On March 1, HCSO will again showcase our exceptional K9 Unit as we compete in the Hard Dog, Fast Dog competition. This event aims to determine which dog can bite the hardest and run the fastest. With our track record of success in past competitions, we anticipate another impressive showing from our talented K9s.
As the rodeo festivities continue, mark your calendars for March 4, First Responders Day. On this day, first responders who present their badges will receive free admission to the rodeo, along with up to four family members. We appreciate the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for hosting First Responders Day and recognizing the invaluable contributions of the various safety providers, including firefighters, EMS, and other emergency services agencies in the Houston Area.
HCSO deputies will be on-site throughout the rodeo, assisting with operations and ensuring the safety of all attendees. Their dedication and professionalism exemplify the values of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and we’re proud to have them represent us at the Houston Rodeo.
HCSO Celebrates Women’s History Month
As we enter Women’s History Month, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly acknowledges the valuable contributions of women within our ranks. From leadership and executive roles to every corner of our organization, women play a vital role in keeping our communities safe and our operations running smoothly. Despite the male-dominated nature of law enforcement, we recognize the unique perspective and compassion that female representation brings to public safety.
Last year, HCSO opened the historic Women’s Empowerment Center (WEC). As we celebrate its first anniversary, we reflect on the center’s mission to provide programs and resources to empower women to learn new skills and rebuild their lives. Our goal for the WEC is simple: to ensure that when these women return to their communities, they are better equipped than when they entered our care.
One of the hallmarks of our commitment to women’s advancement is our involvement with the 30X30 Initiative, which sets a goal to achieve 30% representation of women within our organization by the year 2030. We are pleased to report that we are on track to meet this objective, thanks to proactive recruitment efforts, retention strategies, and a commitment to promoting gender diversity at all levels of our agency.
In addition to recruitment efforts, we offer comprehensive benefits packages, including healthcare benefits, parental leave, and employee assistance programs, ensuring that our teammates have the support they need to thrive professionally and personally.
HCSO Celebrates the First Anniversary of the Women’s Empowerment Center
HCSO In The News
KHOU 11: Child who was missing from west Harris County found safe, HCSO says
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A 10-year-old boy who went missing in west Harris County on Tuesday was found safe Wednesday morning, according to the sheriff’s office
Hoodline: HCSO Launches Crime-Free Multi-Housing Program to Curb High Crime Rates in Cypress Station
In an effort to combat persistently high crime rates in Cypress Station, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) has unveiled the Crime-Free Multi-Housing Program in the area and is looking to roll it out across unincorporated Harris County.
The Baytown Sun: Crosby ISD is Committed to Community Safety.
Superintendent Paula Patterson says: I had a chance to meet with Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and his command staff, as well as members of the Harris County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office and Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner’s Office.
The school district is committed to safety in our communities of Crosby and Barrett Station.
Hat Toss Day Celebration at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez proudly joined Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for the first-ever Hat Toss Day celebration!
HCSO Spring Break Camp
Join us at the HCSO & Dick’s Sporting Goods Spring Break Youth Camp. Free to attend, but you must register.
This two-day camp promises exciting sports activities, skill-building exercises, and a chance for your child to make new friends in a safe and supervised environment. Youth ages 13-17 are welcome to attend!
Dates: Monday, March 11 – Tuesday, March 12
Time: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Dick’s Sporting Goods, 24600 Katy Fwy, Ste 1100A, Katy, TX 77494
Participants must arrange their transportation to and from the event.
Light snacks and refreshments will be available while supplies last. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy a friendly competition and connect with your community. We look forward to seeing you there!
How to Register: Secure your child’s spot today by clicking HERE or by scanning the QR code.
WATCH: HSCO Black History Month Spotlight
In honor of Black History Month, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office are highlighting leaders in our agency.
Meet Major Earl Dean, who began his career with HCSO in January 1993 and has faithfully served the residents of Harris County for nearly 30 years.
In April 2023, Major Dean became the West Region Patrol Bureau/Neighborhood Policing Division Major. He has previously served as District 2 Patrol Captain, Detentions Specialized Housing Captain, Parks and District 4 Watch Commander/Lieutenant, and Community Engagement Supervisor.
Major Dean enjoys reading books, collecting fine arts/antiques, fishing, theatrical plays, and family trips.
Thank you for your service, Major Dean!
Meet Ashley Warren, a Licensed Professional Counselor with the HCSO Behavioral Health Division. She joined HCSO in December 2022.
She provides mental health services, education, and consultation to all within the department, their dependents, and retirees. Before joining our agency, she worked with the Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department (HCCSCD).
Thank you for your service, Ashley Warren!
HCSO Honors Deputy Rondald Bates
Sherrif Ed Gonzales joined family, friends and teammates to offer final honors to Deputy Rondald Bates and bid farewell to our brother in blue, Harris County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Ronald Bates. It was a solemn ceremony at Fallcreek Church filled with memories and respect for his service. Rest in peace, Deputy Bates. You will always be remembered.
Public Safety Partners Combat Wire Theft
HCSO Assistant Chief Tommy Diaz and Major Saul Suarez joined the Houston Police Department and Crime Stoppers to bring awareness to a recent spike in infrastructure vandalism, also known as copper wire theft.
HSCO Participates in March on Crime Press Conference.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined the Houston Police Department and other public safety partners at the 40th Annual “March on Crime” press conference.
March on Crime is HPD’s annual campaign to engage the public in the fight against crime.