HCSO Newsletter #221 – Standing with Survivors: Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Violence in Harris County | | Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez: | | |
Domestic violence is more than just statistics; it is a painful reality that affects families, neighbors, and loved ones throughout Harris County. This October, during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Harris County Sheriff's Office reaffirms its commitment to protecting victims, holding abusers accountable, and providing resources to help survivors heal and rebuild their lives.
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From January to August 2025, our Homicide Unit responded to 67 murders, 23 of which were the result of domestic violence—nearly 1 in 3 homicides this year. While the overall number of murders has decreased compared to last year, the impact of domestic violence remains deeply troubling. Each of these cases represents a life cut short, a grieving family, and a community forever changed.
Domestic violence doesn't always start with physical harm. It can begin with controlling behavior, constant disrespect, or isolation from friends and family. Recognizing these warning signs is the first step; reaching out for help is the next.
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The Harris County Sheriff's Office stands in solidarity with survivors. Our Victim Assistance Unit offers:
- Emergency shelter.
- Counseling services.
- Legal support and protective orders through partners like Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA).
- Crime victim compensation.
- Safety planning and relocation assistance.
We also help survivors create personalized safety plans because we know that leaving an abusive relationship can be one of the hardest—and often most dangerous—steps a person can take. This is the message of Domestic Violence Awareness Month: no one should have to face this struggle alone.
To survivors: Your fight is our fight. We’ve got your back.
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If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence:
- In an emergency, call 911 immediately.
- For resources and support, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
- Contact the HCSO Victim Assistance Unit at 713-274-9369.
Together, as a community, we can break the cycle of domestic violence and create a safer Harris County for everyone.
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HOUSTON – In 2009, Sandeep Dhaliwal made history by joining the Harris County Sheriff’s Office as the first Sikh deputy, and six years after he was tragically killed in the line of duty, he is still remembered as a trailblazer.
In addition to becoming the first Sikh deputy hired with the Sheriff’s Office, he made history again by being able to wear his turban while serving out his duties as an officer. Being able to adorn the turban and keep his beard was particularly important because in the Sikh faith, these are identifying symbols of justice and protection for those in need.
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HOUSTON – Harris County leaders have finalized funding to raise salaries for deputies and constables, bringing their pay in line with Houston Police Department officers.
This $8.3 billion Fiscal Year 2026 budget increases pay for county law enforcement officers, invests heavily in flood maintenance, protects funding for community health, safeguards Precinct funding for roads, sidewalks, parks, and community centers, and minimizes cuts to core services.
| | 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. | | |
HCSO Teammate of the Week: Deputy Josslyn Wilson
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Wilson as our Teammate of the Week.
A Harris County resident recently shared:
“I was pulled over by Deputy Wilson recently and she was truly a bright spot in an otherwise rainy dreary day. I understood the reason she pulled me over but she was polite, concise, and kind. I appreciated her demeanor and professionalism.”
Deputy Wilson began her law enforcement career with HCSO in August 2013. She is currently assigned as a patrol deputy in District 5, where she continues to serve and care for the community.
Thank you, Deputy Wilson, for your professionalism, kindness, and dedication to serving Harris County.
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Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Adam Ray for his professionalism, compassion, and dedication to keeping our community safe.
A Harris County resident recently shared:
“I was driving in front of Birkes Elementary School on my way home. I was pulled over by HCSO Deputy A Ray. He issued me a warning to be careful. It was helpful that he reminded me of many students now walking to school within a mile radius. I shook his hand and wished him a blessed day. I am actually going to save this warning paper as a reminder that I need to be more cognizant of traffic and pedestrians. Thank you, Deputy Ray, for helping me stay on the straight and narrow. God bless and protect all of you.”
Deputy Ray began his career with HCSO in November 2011 as a Detention Officer. In February 2015, he became a certified Peace Officer. He currently serves in Patrol, District I, north Harris County, assigned to the Remington MUD 1 contract as the dayshift deputy.
Thank you, Deputy Ray, for your commitment to public safety and for serving with professionalism and heart.
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Sheriff Ed Gonzalez joined Harris County leaders to thank Commissioners for making a historic investment in public safety.
This decision ensures pay parity and gives our deputies the support they need to serve, protect, and stand with our community every day.
“On behalf of thousands of peace officers who will benefit from this thoughtful investment: Thank you for having our back.” – Sheriff Gonzalez
Together, we are building a safer, stronger Harris County.
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On September 27, 2025, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff's Office gathered to honor and remember our friend and fallen hero, Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal, on the 6th anniversary of his passing.
His family and our teammates came together with the Copperbrook community, the very district he patrolled and protected, for a memorial breakfast.
Deputy Dhaliwal’s legacy of compassion, kindness, and courage continues to inspire us every day. He was a trailblazer who served our community with integrity and a heart full of love.
We will never forget his sacrifice. His memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew him, and we are committed to upholding the values he stood for.
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Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly welcome the second Youth Leadership Council!
Twenty-seven outstanding students from high schools across Harris County are stepping up to lead, address critical issues, and create real-world solutions that strengthen our community.
A special thank-you to Crime Stoppers of Houston for generously hosting us, and to the Soudagar Organization for providing breakfast for our future leaders.
Together, we are building a safer, stronger Harris County—powered by the voices of our youth.
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On September 25, 2025, Commissioner Adrian Garcia, the Harris County Precinct 2 team, and HCSO teammates joined neighbors in District 3 to dedicate a new pocket park in honor of Retired Deputy Tommy Lee Berry.
Deputy Berry, who retired in 2024 after 41 years of service—including more than five years serving Precinct 2 residents—first proposed this park idea during a Civic Club Meeting, inspired by community concerns.
Today, his vision became a reality as we celebrated the ribbon-cutting and name unveiling of this new neighborhood space at 13310 Edgeboro St.
A special thank-you to Commissioner Adrian Garcia and the Precinct 2 Team for this incredible honor and for helping bring Deputy Berry’s vision to life.
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Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO are proud to recognize the dedication and hard work of 15 teammates earning their well-deserved promotions.
Ready to make a difference? Join our team today! Apply at HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250.
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Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO are excited to join our community for National Night Out on October 7, 2025!
We can’t wait to connect with you, share in the festivities, and continue building the bonds that make our neighborhoods safe.
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Join us for two safe and family-friendly Halloween celebrations filled with costumes, candy, music, and community fun:
Friday, October 17 | 6–7:30 PM
14350 Wallisville Rd, Houston, TX 77049
Costume contest, food trucks, marine boat display & live DJ!
Wednesday, October 29 | 4–8 PM
Lincoln Park, 979 Grenshaw St, Houston, TX 77088
Carnival games, food, drinks, cotton candy, snow cones & more!
Bring your family, wear your best costume, and let’s celebrate together!
| | Happy Trails: HCSO Retirees | | To all retirees, we thank you for your years of service to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. Congratulations on your retirement, and best of luck on the next chapter in your life. | | |
You are not alone.
This suicide training bulletin highlights essential resources, programs, and support available to all HCSO personnel and their families. You can also find this and all past training bulletins on the HCSO intranet by visiting the department policy landing page and looking for the "Training Bulletins" link at the top right.
For quick access to mental health resources at any time, look for the smiley face icon under the Resources section at the very bottom of the main intranet landing page.
If you or someone you know needs support, please remember that confidential help is always available.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the well-being of our team and our community.
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The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center to host a Blood Drive on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 1200 Baker Street, Houston, TX 77002 (Donor Coach). We encourage all eligible individuals to participate!
For additional information, please contact the Primary Blood Drive Coordinator, Syrenthia “Nikki” Bonds, at syrenthia.bonds@sheriff.hctx.net.
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Getting a flu shot is FREE for any Harris County employee or retiree covered on Harris County insurance (Aetna).
Appointments are required to receive a flu vaccine. The deadline to make an appointment is 4 days prior to the event date. Walk-ins are limited and not guaranteed. You will receive a confirmation email with a link that you can use to reschedule or cancel your appointment if needed.
Click HERE for more information about eligibility and what items to bring.
You may also contact wellness@kelsey-seybold.com or call 713-442-4645 to reschedule or cancel your appointment.
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Open Enrollment is October 20 - 31, 2025
You serve Harris County, and Harris County is here to serve you with great benefits. Make sure you’re taking full advantage of the many benefits available to you. During the October 20 - 31, 2025 open enrollment period, you can:
- Change your medical plan option
- Add or drop covered dependents*
- Enroll or unenroll in dependent care and/or health FSAs to make your 2026 contributions
- Purchase or discontinue optional life insurance or optional long-term disability
Click HERE for more information.
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We are hosting a fundraiser in support of Paula D. Berry-Smith and her family.
BBQ plates and desserts will be available for purchase, with all proceeds going directly to Paula and her family.
📅 Friday, October 10, 2025 – 11:00 a.m.
📍 Outside of 1200 Baker St.
💳 Presale orders and electronic payment options are available.
For details, please get in touch with Rachell Yarbrough or Ra'Ven Livingston.
Join us in showing your support — every plate makes a difference!
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