HCSO Newsletter #196 – Building Safe Communities: National Night Out and Domestic Violence Support | |
Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez: | |
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On October 1, 2024, the Harris County Sheriff's Office proudly participated in the annual National Night Out (NNO). Thousands of communities nationwide joined in this initiative to build stronger relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Click here to view the photo gallery.
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This year’s event was held in multiple neighborhoods throughout Harris County, where deputies and community members came together for an evening of fun, safety awareness, and connection. NNO fosters a unique opportunity for residents to meet their local law enforcement officers in a casual, friendly setting, promoting partnerships that enhance public safety.
From meet-and-greets with deputies to showcasing some of HCSO’s impressive vehicles and even bringing out the mounted patrol, each NNO celebration offered something unique. HCSO leadership and teammates made their way through various neighborhoods, greeting residents, answering questions, and participating in community festivities.
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Community engagement is at the heart of what we do at the Harris County Sheriff's Office, and NNO allows us to strengthen the ties that keep our neighborhoods safe and united. We extend our gratitude to all the residents who participated, and we look forward to building even more connections during next year’s NNO events.
Thank you to everyone who made this year’s National Night Out a success. Together, we are making Harris County a safer, more connected community.
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HCSO Stands Against Domestic Violence | |
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Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects many families in our community. Here at the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, we are committed to protecting victims, holding abusers accountable, and offering help to those in need.
We collaborate with various local organizations that provide legal assistance, counseling, and other support services for survivors. We do our best to ensure that victims of domestic violence have access to the resources they need to feel safe and supported.
Domestic violence often happens behind closed doors, but by raising awareness and speaking up, we can help end the cycle of abuse. Our efforts aim to empower victims and connect them with the resources they need to take back control of their lives.
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If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence, here are some safety tips:
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Make a Safety Plan: Plan a quick way to leave if needed. Know where you can go to be safe, and keep important items like documents, money, and extra keys in a place where you can grab them quickly.
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Stay Connected: Tell trusted friends, family, or neighbors about your situation. Always have a phone with you and set up a secret word with loved ones in case you need help.
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Document the Abuse: Keep a record of any incidents, including dates, times, and any injuries. This can be important if you decide to take legal action.
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Seek Help: Contact organizations like Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA) for support. They can provide legal advice, emotional support, and other services to help you.
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Call 911 in an Emergency: If you are in immediate danger, call or text 911 right away.
We encourage anyone experiencing domestic violence to reach out for help. Our deputies are here to provide support. Together, we can stand up against domestic violence and make Harris County a safer place for everyone.
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On Friday morning, the Harris County Sheriff's Office Homicide Unit held a press conference with Johnson's family. They're looking for any information from the public that could lead to a suspect/suspects. | | |
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Houston leads the county in gun-involved road rage incidents, but there are strategies that may help drivers avoid a potentially deadly situation.
Out of 215 road rage incidents between 2014 - 2023 in Houston, 206 resulted in someone being wounded or killed by a gun,
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Watch the press conference and help us solve the murder of Cody Walker Johnson.
On Friday, September 27, 2024, at approximately 8 p.m., 19-year-old Cody Walker Johnson was traveling west on the Katy Freeway when he was struck by gunfire.
We urge anyone who was in that area during those hours to come forward if they can remember anything, such as vehicles racing, vehicles cutting each other off, or hearing loud popping sounds.
If you have any information, please call 713-274-9100 or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-8477. Crime Stoppers may pay up to $30,000 for information leading to the arrest of the suspects in this case.
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Congratulations to the 70 graduates of HCSO's Basic County Corrections Course, Class J8-2024! On October 4, we celebrated their dedication and hard work during the pinning ceremony as they take the next step in their careers. Welcome to the team! | |
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On September 27, 2024, the Harris County Sheriff's Office gathered to honor and remember our friend and fallen hero, Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal, on the 5th anniversary of his passing.
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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Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight! | |
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff's Office are highlighting leaders in our agency. | |
Meet Deputy J. Miniel, who is part of the HCSO Courts Investigation Unit. She’s been with HCSO for 12 years. Thank you for your service, Deputy Miniel! | |
Meet Detention Officer D. Fierros, who is part of the Women’s Empowerment Center. She’s been with HCSO for nine years. Thank you for your service, Detention Officer Fierros! | |
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We are excited to announce that the Harris County Jail Women’s Empowerment Center (WEC) has been featured on Apple's website: apple.com/education-initiative.
Since opening in February 2023, the WEC has been committed to helping women build brighter futures by providing essential life skills and educational opportunities.
Thanks to our partnerships, women can access courses such as Apple Technology Fundamentals, where they can learn valuable tech skills that will help them secure meaningful employment after release.
We are thankful to Apple for partnering with us and supporting our mission to transform lives and break the cycle of incarceration. Together, we are helping women gain the confidence and tools they need for a better life.
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In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Harris County Sheriff's Office Emergency Dispatch Center is glowing pink to show support for all the brave fighters, survivors, and those we've lost to this disease. | |
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Join the Harris County Sheriff's Office for spooky fun at our Trunk-or-Treat events! Bring the kids for a safe, fun-filled evening with plenty of candy and festive activities. Don't forget your costumes!
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
2020 Solo St., Houston, Texas, 77020
Friday, October 25, 2024
6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
14350 Wallisville Rd., Houston, Texas, 77049
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
5 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
1340 Cypress Station Dr., Houston, Texas, 77090
We can't wait to see you there!
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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. | |
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Mark your calendar for our upcoming open enrollment period, November 1-15, 2024. This shorter window of time is why we are reaching out to you now. Use this time to make sure you’re taking advantage of the many benefits available to you. You can make the following updates:
- Change your medical plan option
- Add or drop covered dependents*
- Purchase or discontinue optional life insurance or optional long-term disability
- Enroll or disenroll in 2025 dependent daycare and/or health FSAs to make your 2025 contributions.
If adding dependents to your health insurance, please upload documentation no later than November 11th.
*Court ordered dependents require a termination of medical support notice to be dropped.
Changes to Note:
The open enrollment period is shorter compared to last year. Make sure you’re prepared should you need to make changes.
- One change you can expect to see is a new medical plan option. In addition to our current Base and Plus medical plans, you’ll have the option to select our new plan called the KelseyCare ACO.
- The Self+Child tier will now be Self+Child/Children and the Self+2 or More tier will now be Self+Family, which includes a spouse. This family-friendly update better aligns with industry standards, plus you will see a premium savings if you cover only children!
- Your vision and dental plans will remain the same and your basic life insurance and long-term disability (LTD) coverage are also unchanged.
You can visit an open enrollment booth at a flu shot event near you. Find location here!
Satisfied with your current benefits selection? There is no action needed. You will automatically continue with it.
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The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is looking for qualified personnel to join the ranks of the
Armed Detention Officer Training Program. The practical testing process consists of a work-related fitness assessment.
Testing for Armed Detention Officer Candidate will be held at 1307 Baker St, Room E-1, on the following dates and times:
- October 22, 2024 (0700-1700)
General Job Description
- Armed Detention Officers will be tasked with transporting Harris County Jail prisoners outside the jail, transporting Harris County Jail prisoners to/from courts, and with guarding Harris County Jail prisoners in area hospitals or other outside health care facilities.
Requirements for Testing
- Currently holds the rank of Detention Officer
- Basic Jailer’s License
- Minimum of 21 years of age
- Must agree to a 1-year commitment to the position of Armed Detention Officer (not affected by promotion or transfer to the Basic Peace Officer’s Course)
- Must agree to orders of the 140-hour Armed Detention Officer Training Program
- Owns a semi-automatic firearm that meets the requirements of HCSO Policy #702
- Be self-motivated and able to work with little supervision
- Must have a good attendance record
- Must present a professional image
Preferences
- Experience working the operations section of 1200 and 701
- Intermediate, Advanced, or Master Jailer’s License
- Previous firearms and defensive tactics training
Testing Procedure
If you meet the abovementioned requirements, come to the test in full uniform and have your HCSO identification. Do not bring a firearm to the test. Bring a copy of your TCOLE Personal Status Report (PSR) to the test. You can print your TCOLE PSR from https://www.tcole.texas.gov/
If you previously tested and passed the test, you are already on the eligibility list and do not need
to test again. You can try again if you have previously tested and failed the test or failed to meet
other requirements
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The Sheriff’s Office will serve as a voting location this year, marking our 9th time offering this service to both the public and our team members.
Location: 701 N. San Jacinto, Lobby
(Employees with county IDs can use machines on the secure side if lines are long.)
Date: Tuesday, November 5, 2024
Time: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Remember to bring a valid ID to participate in the voting process.
Thank you!
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Attention Academy Graduates! | |
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If you are a full-time employee in a non-deputy position and have completed the Basic Peace Officer Course at an outside academy, please email your information, including your graduation date, to Josh Floyd Joshua.Floyd@sheriff.hctx.net or Mariel Rosario Lugaro Mariel.Lugaro2@Sheriff.hctx.net.
We are assessing interest from personnel who may want to transition to a full-time deputy role with the HCSO.
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