Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage
Visit the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homepage
Operation Blitz: Cracking Down on Organized Retail Crime
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Gulf Coast Criminal Investigators Association, has launched Operation Blitz— a strategic, multi-agency initiative aimed at disrupting organized retail crime at its source.
This proactive operation deploys undercover officers in retail settings to identify and apprehend individuals involved in large-scale theft and shoplifting rings. By blending in with everyday shoppers, law enforcement can observe crimes in progress and build stronger cases against organized criminal groups.
Organized retail crime is more than ordinary shoplifting; it involves coordinated networks stealing significant amounts of merchandise, often across multiple stores. These activities not only hurt local businesses and raise consumer costs but can also escalate into more serious offenses.
Thanks to Operation Blitz, several arrests have already been made, with more expected as the operation continues. The HCSO and its partners are committed to sending a clear message: retail crime will not be tolerated in Harris County. This effort supports local businesses, protects consumers, and dismantles the networks driving organized theft.
🎥 Watch the video to see how our teams target theft rings, protect businesses, and ensure your shopping experience is safe.
WATCH: Cracking Retail Theft Rings: Behind Operation Blitz
Hurricane Season Safety: Stay Ready, Stay Safe
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office urges all residents to take proactive steps to prepare.
Start by developing a household emergency plan:
- Know your evacuation zone and route
- Identify a safe place to go
- Set a family communication strategy
Build a basic emergency kit with:
- Non-perishable food and bottled water
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid supplies and medications
- Phone charger and power bank
- Copies of important documents in a waterproof folder
Stay informed through local alerts at ReadyHarris.org, as well as updates from the National Weather Service, and follow HCSO on social media for real-time safety updates.
If authorities issue an evacuation order, act quickly—roads can become hazardous with little warning. Don’t wait—evacuate.
At the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, we are dedicated to protecting our community before, during, and after severe weather events. We continuously monitor forecasts and plan for worst-case scenarios to ensure we are ready when disaster strikes. Since Hurricane Harvey, we have significantly increased our investment in high-water rescue vehicles, boats, and swiftwater rescue training to enhance our emergency response capabilities.
In 2020, we opened our elevated Emergency Call Center, which is specifically designed to remain operational during major storms, including those as powerful as a Category 4 hurricane. The center operates without interruption thanks to three backup generators and reinforced infrastructure.
Our team also conducts annual hurricane tabletop exercises in collaboration with local partners to ensure seamless rescue operations when every second counts. We encourage all residents to be prepared because together, we are stronger and safer.
HCSO Is Here for You
Whether addressing organized crime or preparing for natural disasters, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to keeping our communities safe, informed, and resilient. A little preparation today can make a life-saving difference tomorrow.
HCSO In the News
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Click2Houston: Houston area sees tragic rise in drownings; officials emphasize water safety
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In Harris County, there have been four fatal drownings involving children under the age of 13 this year.
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The two drownings earlier this week involved toddlers, both three years old. One child did not survive, while the other was life-flighted to a hospital.
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Texas Department of Transportation: Roadside patrols at your service in Houston
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A flat tire, running out of gas, or an overheating vehicle on a major freeway can raise most anyone’s anxiety level at any time. Add to that a high volume of traffic on a busy roadway, and it can also create a very dangerous situation. This is where a program such as the Harris County Motorist Assistance Program (MAP) comes in to save the day.
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In a bold move to crack down on a surge of organized retail crime, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) has launched Operation Blitz, a multi-agency initiative aimed at dismantling theft rings and holding repeat offenders accountable. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez announced the operation last week, joining forces with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Gulf Coast Criminal Investigators Association.
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In a tradition that spans more than seven decades, the Harris County Junior Mounted Posse is opening its gates to a new generation of young riders. The youth equestrian drill team—an extension of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office—welcomes children and teens ages 6 to 20 who have a passion for horses, public service, and precision performance.
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Founded in 1952 by Sheriff Buster Kern, the Junior Mounted Posse has long served as the Sheriff’s Office’s goodwill ambassadors.
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Teammate 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.
This week, we recognize Lieutenant Daniel DellaSala for his exceptional professionalism and dedication—not just within HCSO, but across agencies.
A Pearland Police Department Crime Scene Supervisor recently shared this commendation:
“Understanding Lt. DellaSala’s role and workload with your Department, I found it incredibly commendable that he went out of his way to help me enroll an officer in the Intermediate Crime Scene Investigation course for May 2025—all while managing his own duties. His helpful nature speaks volumes about his work ethic and is truly an asset to your Department.”
Lt. DellaSala has served with HCSO for 16 years and currently leads the Crime Scene Investigations and Crime Laboratory Unit.
Thank you, Lt. DellaSala, for representing HCSO’s core values and making a lasting impact in the field of forensic investigation.
Teammates of the Quarter
Celebrating Excellence: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize our Employees of the Quarter: Congratulations to Sergeant T. Steptoe and Detention Officer S. Obleton for their outstanding service!
- During a routine check, Detention Officer Obleton’s vigilance led to a swift response that saved the life of an individual in custody. Thanks to the teamwork and professionalism of those involved, immediate aid was rendered without hesitation.
- Sergeant Steptoe is recognized for her strong leadership and commitment to enhancing operations within the Specialized Housing Unit. Her hands-on approach and dedication to team development have left a lasting, positive impact on her colleagues and the facility.
Thank you both for going above and beyond in service to our community!
Class of 2025 – Start Your Career with HCSO
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is inviting graduating seniors and job seekers to a Hiring Event on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the HCSO Academy (2316 Atascocita Rd, Humble, TX 77396).
Explore career opportunities as a Detention Officer or Communication Officer, connect with recruiters, and get a head start on your future!
- On-the-spot applications
- Pre-background screening
- Pre-employment testing
- Great benefits: Health insurance, pension, paid vacation & more!
Open to the public. Everyone is welcome!
Must be 18+ with a high school diploma by the hiring date. Come prepared and take the first step toward a career in public service!
Justice for Austin: $20,000 Reward for Tips in Murder Investigation
We stand with 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 we need your help.
- 📍 Greenleaf Lake Dr., west Harris County
- 🚴♂️ Suspect fled on a mountain-bike-style bicycle
- 💰 Reward: Up to $20,000 for information leading to arrest/charges
- 📞 Call 713-222-TIPS (8477) – tips are anonymous
Please share. Someone out there knows something. Let’s bring Austin’s killer to justice.
A Family’s Quest for Justice: Remembering Angel Muñiz
Someone saw what happened.
On November 19, 2023, 21-year-old Angel Muñiz was shot and killed outside Tacos Del Toro #2 in east Harris County.
Detectives believe a witness was there—and that person may hold the key to solving this case. Even the smallest detail could help bring justice for Angel and peace to his grieving family.
Angel didn’t get a second chance. But someone out there now has a chance to do the right thing.
If you know anything, please speak up:
- 📞 HCSO Homicide Unit: 713-274-9100
- 📞 Remain anonymous: Call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477)
- 💰 You may be eligible for a $5,000 reward
Violent Persons Warrants Task Force Clears 5K Warrants
Over 5,000 felony warrants cleared—and counting!
The Violent Persons Warrants Task Force, a strategic partnership between the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and local Constable agencies, is taking bold action to locate and apprehend Harris County’s most dangerous fugitives.
This multi-agency initiative is focused on one goal: making our communities safer.
🎥 Watch the video for an exclusive look at how these dedicated teams are working around the clock to serve justice and bring peace of mind to families across Harris County.
Surprise Visit from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez made a surprise visit to our cadets, offering words of encouragement, steadfast support, and powerful inspiration. His presence served as a reminder that true leadership is grounded in connection, mentorship, and a commitment to the continued growth of those who serve. We are proud to invest in the future of our agency—one cadet at a time.
Congratulations, HCSO Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit Inspector Maurice Bucklin!
Harris County Sheriff’s Office Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit Inspector Maurice Bucklin showcased his expertise among the best in Texas.
Deputy Bucklin competed against 30 of the state’s top Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspectors during a rigorous, multi-day competition.
Participants were tested in categories including:
- Inspection Reports
- General Hazardous Materials
- Bulk Cargo HazMat
- Passenger Vehicle Inspections
- Teams also faced off in the highly competitive HazMat Olympics
We’re proud to announce that Deputy Bucklin earned:
- 🥇 1st Place – Hazardous Materials
- 🥈 2nd Place – Inspection Reports
- 🏆 1st Place Overall – Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP) in Texas
His outstanding performance has earned him the honor of representing the State of Texas at the national level.
Congratulations, Deputy Bucklin! Your dedication, skill, and professionalism reflect the best of HCSO and the high standards of commercial vehicle enforcement.
National Gun Violence Awareness Month
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office stand in solidarity with survivors and honor the lives lost to gun violence during National Gun Violence Awareness Month.
Help save lives: Always store your firearms securely. Free gun locks available year-round — call 346-286-3125.