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Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:
Ensuring the safety and protection of children is one of our top priorities at the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO). During Child Safety and Protection Month, we will share best practices to support families and guardians in creating a secure environment for our youngest residents.
Safety Tips for Protecting Children in Our Community:
- Secure Your Home: Ensure all windows, doors, and potentially hazardous areas are adequately secured to prevent accidents. Consider installing child-proof locks where necessary.
- Stay Vigilant Online: Monitor your children’s internet usage and encourage open discussions about safe online behavior. Using parental controls to protect them from harmful content might be helpful.
- Practice Road Safety: Teach children the importance of road safety, including looking both ways before crossing the street and staying close to trusted adults in public areas.
- Educate on Stranger Danger: Remind children never to go anywhere with someone they don’t know. They should always check with a parent or guardian before leaving with a friend or family member.
- Emergency Contact Knowledge: Ensure children know their address, a parent’s phone number, and how to dial 911 in an emergency.
The HCSO collaborates with local organizations to offer ongoing support to families through community events, such as car seat fairs. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of every child in Harris County.
WATCH: HCSO Car Seat Event
On Friday, November 1, 2024, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office partnered with Safe Kids Greater Houston, and Texas Children’s Hospital to host a car seat safety event. This event was held at the HCSO Academy and aimed to educate parents on the proper installation of car seats.
We successfully educated 35 families and provided 26 car seats to those in need. Sheriff Ed Gonzales spoke with media about renewing our partnerships. He explained that HCSO would host quarterly car seat fairs in different areas of Harris County ensuring that more families have access to essential safety resources.
HCSO Launches “Take Me Home” Program to Help Those with Cognitive Conditions
November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is launching the “Take Me Home” Program.
This new initiative is designed to ensure the safety of elderly residents with various types of cognitive conditions. The program assists law enforcement in providing compassionate support to individuals who may require extra help, ensuring that deputies are equipped to respond with appropriate care and attention.
The program allows families to voluntarily register their loved ones by providing essential information, including:
- The individual’s name and date of birth
- Effective de-escalation techniques
- Do’s and don’ts for interaction
- Past wandering locations
- A recent photo
- Any other details that could assist in a safe interaction
The information provided is linked to an address, giving deputies context and resources during their interactions. By participating in this program, families can have peace of mind knowing that their loved ones will receive supportive and informed care in case of an emergency. The Take Me Home Program reflects HCSO’s commitment to fostering a safer and more compassionate community.
For more information about the Take Me Home program or to register a loved one, please visit bit.ly/TakeMeHomeProgram or email the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at TakeMeHome@sheriff.hctx.net.
WATCH: Learn More About the Take Me Home Program
WATCH: Honoring Our Veterans at the Harris County Sheriff’s Office
Veterans Day, observed on November 11, is a time to honor those who have worn the uniform with pride and courage. We are especially proud of our 755 veterans, 62 active reserves, and 14 deputies currently deployed on military leave who continue to serve their community as public servants.
We appreciate your dedication and sacrifice!
HCSO In the News
- Defender: New QR code to help Harris Co. domestic violence victims
Speakers discussed the intergenerational aspect of domestic violence and its possible prevention through education, counseling, and intervention programs. Credit: Houston Defender/Tannistha Sinha
…Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez discussed the protection of teenagers against DV… - FOX26: Houston teen rescued from being trafficked, woman arrested
HOUSTON – Days after a 16-year-old girl was listed as a runaway, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office found her and says they were able to rescue her from being trafficked.
During the investigation, a 22-year-old woman from Houston was arrested in connection to the case. - FOX26: Harris County Deputies honor fallen colleague on Dia de los Muertos
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a time for families to honor loved ones who have passed away. This weekend, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and community members gathered to remember their own fallen deputies in a special ceremony. - KHOU11: ‘A celebration of life’: Celebrating Día de los Muertos on Houston’s eastside
HOUSTON — Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead is a tradition that originated in Mexico but is now celebrated across the U.S. on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2.
At Champ Burger on Houston’s East End, one neighborhood is breathing beauty into loss. Among the lives remembered, Harris County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Darren Almendarez, who was tragically gunned down in 2022. His wife left his photo at the altar.
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HCSO Teammates 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.
“I would like to thank the Sheriff’s Office and, specifically, Deputy Rhonda Price for keeping me safe on the roads of Humble. I had a procedural issue with a potential citation, but after emailing the website contact address, I quickly received a status response and a personal phone call from Deputy Price the next day to clear up the matter,” said a Harris County resident. “Thanks for giving me the tips on driving more safely and the consideration to listen and follow up so quickly. I learned a few things and have a renewed interest in safety. I now have less stress/expense and no need to take off work in the future! Appreciate you, Deputy Price, and all the efforts of the Sheriff’s Office.”
Deputy Rhonda Price began her law enforcement career with our agency as a Detention Officer in 2015 and became a deputy in 2022. She currently serves in HCSO District Two’s Traffic Unit in north Harris County.
“Thank you so much, Deputy J. Means, for assisting my mother on October 25, 2024, at midnight to change her tire to the spare after being stranded on the freeway on Laura Koppe,” said a Harris County resident. “It was a scary moment; we are very grateful for you helping and keeping my mother safe. Blessings to you, Deputy Means.”
Deputy Means joined our agency in 2016 and started his law enforcement career in 2012. He currently serves our community in the Motorist Assistance Program (MAP).
HCSO Grows with New Lateral Deputies
On November 1, The Harris County Sheriff’s Office welcomed nine new lateral deputies to our ranks! Congratulations on completing your rigorous training and joining our dedicated team. We look forward to your contributions to keeping our community safe.
Are you interested in a rewarding career in law enforcement? The next Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) graduation is on December 3, and we’re always looking for dedicated individuals to join us. Visit HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250 to learn more!
HCSO Delivers Hurricane Relief to North Carolina Law Enforcement Families!
On October 29, The Harris County Sheriff’s Office delivered much-needed supplies to Buncombe County, North Carolina, to support families of law enforcement officers impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Through our community’s generosity, we collected various essential items, including food, water, cleaning supplies, and personal hygiene products. These donations will provide vital assistance to families during this difficult time.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to this effort, including our donors Walmart, Walgreens, and the Houston Police Department, as well as volunteers and team members who made the long drive to Asheville. Your compassion and support make a real difference in the lives of others.
Together, we are stronger!
Women’s Empowerment Center Library Book Donations
On November 1, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Women’s Empowerment Center received a generous donation of thousands of new books from Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia’s Office. This library is important to the incarcerated women as they work hard to overcome challenges, continue their education with GED classes and equip themselves with the skills necessary to be successful as they reenter society.
Special thanks to Mark Cotham from Books for Development for his contributions.
Emergency Dispatch Center Tour with Dubai Dignitaries
On October 28, dignitaries from Dubai and our partners from Rapid SOS and GHC visited and toured our Emergency Dispatch Center.
We are grateful for the opportunity to share insights, exchange knowledge, and strengthen our connections for enhanced public safety. Together, we’re building bridges and innovating for a safer, more connected world.
Beware of Bank Jugging!
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has noticed increased “bank jugging” incidents.
What is bank jugging? Criminals watch people withdraw cash from ATMs or banks and then follow them to steal the money. They may target victims in parking lots, stores, or even their homes.
How to protect yourself:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to people who seem to be loitering or watching you at the bank or ATM.
- Conceal your cash: Put your money away immediately and securely. Don’t leave it visible in your car or purse.
- Change your routine: Vary your banking habits and routes after leaving the bank.
- If you think you’re being followed: Drive to the nearest police station or a well-populated area.
- Report suspicious activity: If you see something, say something! Call the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at 713-221-6000.
Stay vigilant and help us prevent these crimes!
Free Turkey Distribution Event!
Join us for a FREE Turkey Distribution event to help make your Thanksgiving extra special!
- Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
- Time: 10:00 A.M until supplies last
- Location: Guanajuato Supermarket, 5429 E. Mt Houston Rd, Houston, TX 77093
We’ll be giving away turkeys to families in need, so don’t miss this opportunity to get your Thanksgiving feast started!
HCSO Trunk or Treat Events
HCSO teammates were out connecting with the community across Harris County for Halloween Trunk or Treat events. Click the links to view the photos of each event from District 3 to Aldine ISD, HCSO Parks, Cypress Station, and District 4. Thank you to everyone who joined us to build safer, stronger neighborhoods together!
Dia de los Muertos Parades
HCSO was proud to join the Día de los Muertos parades in Downtown Houston and Magnolia Park, celebrating the vibrant culture and heritage of this special day. Thank you to everyone who came out to remember and honor loved ones with us!