Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez – HCSO Launches Initiative to Reduce Jail Admissions

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Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is launching a new Community Hub Program, an innovative initiative designed to reduce jail admissions by connecting individuals with mental health needs to the services and resources they need before situations escalate deeper into the criminal justice system.

The Community Hub concept originated in Chelsea, Massachusetts, where law enforcement agencies partnered with community organizations to rethink traditional, reactive responses to individuals experiencing unmet social and mental health needs. After seeing the positive outcomes of that model, HCSO made the decision to adopt and adapt the proactive policing approach for Harris County, tailoring it to meet the needs of local communities.

“Led by Deputy Charles Scholen and Sergeant Luis Ramirez, the Community Hub serves as an early intervention pathway. When deputies encounter someone whose circumstances may be better addressed through support services rather than incarceration, they can refer that individual to the Community Hub for assistance.

Sergeant Ramirez explained that the goal is to step in early. “We try to get them help before it turns into a criminal offense. That way, we give them a real chance to be successful.”

Individual cases are assessed during Community Hub meetings to understand the challenges they face and the support they may need. Partners, including Precinct 4 Commissioner Briones, Harris Health, Katy Ministries, the HEART Team, Inframark, local churches, and several nonprofit organizations, work together to identify needs such as mental health care, housing support, or other basic services. Once those needs are identified, individuals are connected with programs and community resources that can help them stabilize and move forward.

The success of the Community Hub Program depends on an individual’s willingness to take part. As Sgt. Ramirez explained, “When we respond to a situation, we want to offer help, but we can’t force anyone to accept it.” Participation is voluntary, and real success is measured by fewer repeat calls for service involving those individuals.

The goal is not only to reduce crime but also to build trust between law enforcement and the community while addressing the root issues that often lead to repeated involvement in the justice system.

Organizations that believe they can support this effort and would like to be part of the Community Hub initiative are encouraged to reach out. Interested partners may contact Deputy Charles Scholen at Scholen.Charles@sheriff.hctx.net or cpop@sheriff.hctx.net for more information.

A Second Chance Begins with Compassion and Commitment

During a Metro Rail crime reduction initiative, Sgt. Reginald Robinson met a 70-year-old man experiencing homelessness who shared a deeply personal story. The man expressed his exhaustion from living on the streets and his readiness for change. With sincere emotion, he expressed a genuine desire to rebuild his life and asked for help.

Sgt. Robinson listened and responded with both compassion and accountability. To ensure the man was truly committed to the change ahead, Sgt. Robinson requested that they meet at a specific location each morning. For three consecutive days, the man arrived on time, demonstrating consistency, trust, and determination. During this time, Sgt. Robinson rode the rail with him, ensured he had meals, offered encouragement, and provided spiritual guidance to help him navigate the complexities of his transition with dignity and hope.

Recognizing that lasting change requires long-term support, Sgt. Robinson coordinated with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homeless Outreach Team. Deputy Thomas responded and transported the man to a facility where he could begin the process of rebuilding his life with access to appropriate resources, care, and assistance.

This encounter exemplifies the impact of meeting people where they are by leading with compassion while fostering responsibility. Through partnership, patience, and humanity, the HCSO continues to support individuals who are ready to take significant steps toward stability and a fresh start.

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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.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Isaiah Chavira as this week’s Teammate of the Week.

Deputy Chavira has proudly served with HCSO for more than five years and is currently assigned to District 4 in West Harris County.

Thank you, Deputy Chavira, for representing HCSO with integrity and for making a positive difference through your service.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Christopher Herreth for outstanding service and professionalism.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“I was treated with courtesy and respect, and I am thankful for Officer Herreth, who enforced the safety traffic laws.”

Deputy Herreth began his career with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in October 2023, having started his law enforcement journey in 1996 with the Austin County Sheriff’s Office. He is currently serving as a contract deputy in North Harris County.

Thank you, Deputy Herreth, for your commitment to public safety, respectful service, and for representing HCSO with integrity every day.

HCSO Youth Leadership Council Discusses the Reality of Human Trafficking

The HCSO Youth Leadership Council had the opportunity to learn and have meaningful conversations about human trafficking with guest speaker Amber McCray of Street Grace.

We’re grateful to Crime Stoppers of Houston for hosting and to Walmart for helping start the day by sponsoring breakfast for our students.

WATCH: HCSO’s Operation Phoenix

During Human Trafficking Awareness Month, HCSO detectives worked undercover to identify victims, bring services directly to them, and dismantle trafficking networks, while holding those who fuel exploitation accountable.

Operation Phoenix is about more than arrests—it’s about trust, safety, and second chances. A phoenix rises from the ashes. So can survivors.

WATCH: First in the Field: Detective Garza’s Decade on the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force

For nearly a decade, Detective Briana Garza has served on the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Violent Offenders and Fugitives Task Force—working alongside federal, state, and local partners to track down some of the most dangerous fugitives in Harris County.

After beginning her career in patrol nearly twelve years ago, Garza went on to spend almost ten years on the task force, becoming the first woman from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office to serve in the role.

Driven by teamwork, strategy, and a shared mission to keep the community safe, Garza says it’s the work—and the people—that keep her coming back.

Congratulations Detective Shaun O’Bannion

Harris County Sheriff’s Office Detective Shaun O’Bannion was awarded the U.S. Marshals Service Purple Heart for bravery in the line of duty.

In August 2023, while assisting in a manhunt for an armed suspect, Detective O’Bannion was struck by gunfire. Despite being wounded, body camera footage shows him providing first aid to fellow deputies moments later.

His courage and selfless service represent the very best of HCSO. Congratulations, Detective O’Bannion.

HCSO Recognizes Black History Month

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly honor Black History Month.

We recognize the pioneers and trailblazers who have helped shape a more just and equitable society.

We also celebrate the leaders within our agency who continue this legacy through their service, integrity, and commitment to our community.