As we approach the Fourth of July, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office would like to wish you a safe and joyous Independence Day. This holiday is a time to celebrate our nation’s history and enjoy festivities with family and friends.
To ensure a secure environment for everyone, we have several important reminders for the community.
- Follow Local Laws: Only use fireworks that are legal in your area. Many municipalities have restrictions or bans on fireworks.
- Adult Supervision: Ensure that fireworks are used under close adult supervision.
- Use Outdoors Only: Never use fireworks indoors. They should be used in a clear, open area away from buildings, vehicles, and flammable materials.
- Keep Water Handy: Always have a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of fire or other mishaps.
- Light One at a Time: Light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly.
- Never Relight Duds: If a firework doesn’t go off, don’t try to relight it. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in water.
- Proper Disposal: After fireworks complete their burning, douse them with water before throwing them away to prevent a trash fire.
We recommend attending one of the many professional fireworks shows and events being held across Harris County. These events are designed to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for the entire family.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined the Houston Police Department and other public agencies for a 4th July DWI initiative. We will increase patrols across the county during the holiday. Deputies will be on the lookout for any illegal activities, including the unlawful use of fireworks, impaired driving, and celebratory gunfire. Please report suspicious activities to our non-emergency line at 713-221-6000. In case of emergencies, dial 9-1-1.
Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!
WATCH: Fourth of July Safety Tips
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office wishes everyone a happy and safe 4th of July!
HCSO Supports Unity
June is recognized globally as Pride Month, a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, honor their history, and advocate for equal rights. June was particularly significant as it commemorates the Stonewall Riots of 1969, a pivotal event in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is proud to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. We promote diversity, inclusivity, and acceptance within our ranks and countywide. Our commitment to these values is reflected in our policies, community outreach programs, and daily interactions with the public.
This year’s Pride Parade, which took place on June 29, was a vibrant and joyous celebration of love, diversity, and equality. Thousands of participants, including many from the Sheriff’s Office, marched through the streets of Houston, showcasing their support for the LGBTQ+ community. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez showed his support, passing out goodies and taking pictures with community members. Our deputies were on hand to ensure the safety and security of all attendees, working seamlessly with event organizers and volunteers.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all residents and employees. We continue to work towards creating policies that promote equality and protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Our efforts include providing ongoing training for our deputies on LGBTQ+ issues, sensitivity, and inclusivity, partnering with local LGBTQ+ organizations to support community programs and initiatives, and establishing support networks within the Sheriff’s Office to ensure LGBTQ+ employees feel valued and respected.
Thank you to all who participated in and supported the Pride Parade. Your efforts and enthusiasm make Harris County a more inclusive and welcoming place for everyone.
HCSO in the News
FOX26: Protecting the elderly from scams
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigations scams targeting individuals aged 60 and older caused over three point four billion dollars in losses last year.
And there’s no sign of these scammers slowing down anytime soon. Elderly abuse unit investigator with Harris County Sherriff’s office joins the factor to talk about how to protect your family.
Click2Houston: Baby found abandoned on walking trail released from hospital, taken in by foster family
KATY, Texas – Just as the sun was rising in the sky Saturday morning, a baby was born. Before lunch, a man dumped the baby on a walking trail near a bayou in Harris County.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office says the baby was found wrapped in a towel around 9 a.m. at the end of a cul-de-sac on Casa Martin Drive.
KDHNews: Harris County Records Supervisor Paulette Green Remembered for Her Dedication
HOUSTON, Texas — The Harris County community is mourning the loss of Paulette Green, the Records Supervisor for Precinct 3.
Paulette Green joined Precinct 3 in 2017 after a lengthy tenure at the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
Community Impact: Harris County commissioners approve $1.27M in bond funding for 7 public safety projects
Harris County commissioners at their June 25 meeting approved allocating $1.27 million in public safety bond funding for seven projects within the Harris County Sheriff’s and Fire Marshal’s offices.
Funding will go toward projects that include a training facility where first responders can train in flood and swift water rescue operations.
CW39: HCSO Hosting Citizens’ Police Academy for the Filipino Community this July
HOUSTON, TX — The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is hosting a Citizen’s police Academy dedicated to the Filipino community in Houston.
Those interested in learning more about the day-to-day tasks and what it takes to be in Law Enforcement can register to attend the event.
Letters to the Troops
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office teammates proudly joined The Bull to support our troops by sending heartfelt thank-you cards this Independence Day.
Assistant Chief of Detentions Command Phillip Bosquez joined the Bull Houston live! We want to extend our deepest gratitude to our troops for all you do. Your bravery and dedication are appreciated beyond words. Thank you for your service!
🚨Phone Scam Alert 🚨
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office warns our community about a scammer pretending to be HCSO personnel.
Please stay vigilant and follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Verify Identities: If someone claims to be an HCSO teammate, ask for their name and badge number, then contact HCSO at 713-221-6000 to verify.
- Never Share Personal Info: Do not give out personal or financial information over the phone or online unless you know the recipient’s valid identity.
- Beware of Threats: Legitimate law enforcement will never threaten arrest over the phone for non-payment of fines or fees.
- Report Suspicious Calls: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately and report it to our office.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about common scams and share this information with friends and family.
Let’s work together to protect one another from scammers. If you have any concerns or questions, please call us at 713-221-6000.
July is Watch Your Car Month
Protect your ride! Here are some safety tips to prevent car theft: Always lock doors and park in well-lit areas. Stay safe out there!
Join HCSO at the VetConnect Career Day
Join the HCSO Recruitment Team at the Vetconnect Career Day, held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 18, 2024, at East End Maker Hub, 6501 Navigation Blvd, Houston, TX 77011.
This is a free event, and over 100 vendors will attend. You can connect with a wide range of Veteran Service Organizations and Employers. Free headshots will be available. Click HERE to register.
To learn more about our career opportunities, visit HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250.
Active Attack Scenario
Last week, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Pasadena Police Department, and Harris County Precinct 8 Constable’s Office conducted an active attack scenario.
Thanks to all the participants! These exercises are necessary so that first responders can promptly implement a unified command in an emergency. HCSO’s priority is to save lives and ensure the safety of our community.
Honoring The Tae Kwon Do Superheroes
HCSO Community Engagement had the privilege of honoring the Yong-In Tae Kwon Do family in Cypress for their incredible acts of heroism. They exemplified courage and selflessness during a moment of crisis. They bravely intervened to save a young lady from a dangerous assault, embodying the true spirit of community and compassion.
We presented them with a certificate of appreciation to express our deepest gratitude for their bravery and quick thinking. Let’s celebrate these real-life superheroes among us!
Congratulations to our New Detention Officers
Congratulations to our 43 new detention officers on their graduation! Your hard work and dedication to serving and protecting are genuinely commendable. We are incredibly proud of your achievements!
If you know anyone seeking a fulfilling career, please refer them to our website, HCSOJobs.com, or our phone number 713-877-5250.
Keep Your Loved Ones Safe with Smart911
Stay Safe, Stay Informed: Sign Up for Smart911 Today! Smart911 allows you to create a Safety Profile for your household, providing vital information that 911 operators and first responders can access during emergencies.
Visit tinyurl.com/25sbb6yt or text us at 67283.