Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez:

One of the most notable arrests involved Joshua Aaron Gomez, whose case shows why efforts like this matter. Gomez has been under investigation across multiple Texas counties for a pattern of sexual assaults and other inappropriate behavior dating back to 2019. Although he lost his chiropractic license that year, he continued to present himself as a medical professional and targeted women who were already dealing with injury, pain, or pregnancy-related issues.

So far, 13 women have come forward with reports ranging from felony sexual assault to indecent assault and indecent exposure. During the roundup, HCSO detectives served a warrant related to an assault from 2019, and the Violent Persons Warrants Task Force arrested Gomez at his home in Katy.

Because of the number of allegations and the repeated nature of the behavior, investigators believe there may be additional survivors who have not yet shared their experiences. HCSO encourages anyone affected to reach out.

This initiative shows the importance of law enforcement agencies working together. When information is shared and resources are combined, dangerous individuals can be located more quickly and safely.

To all of the detectives, deputies, and partner agencies involved — thank you for your dedication. And to every survivor who has come forward, we stand with you.

Operations like this help send a clear message: If you commit violent crimes in Harris County, you will be held accountable.

Watch: Multi Agency Warrants Round Up

Thanksgiving Safety: Staying Alert and Supporting One Another

As families across Harris County come together this Thanksgiving, we want to express our deep gratitude for the men and women of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Your dedication and service help keep our community safe every single day—especially during the busy holiday season.

With increased travel, shopping, and home deliveries, the holidays can also bring an uptick in preventable crimes. By staying alert and taking a few simple precautions, we can protect our families, our property, and our community.

Holiday Safety Tips:

• Protect your deliveries: Track packages and bring them inside promptly to reduce porch piracy. Consider secure delivery options or trusted neighbors.
• Secure your home: Double-check doors and windows before leaving. Use timers or outdoor lights to give the appearance that someone is home.
• Stay aware while shopping: Keep your belongings close. Avoid distractions like texting when walking through parking lots. Do not leave purchases visible inside your vehicle.
• Prevent bank jugging: After visiting a bank or ATM, secure cash immediately and stay aware of your surroundings. If you suspect you’re being followed, call 911 or go to a public location.
• Keep vehicles secure: Lock your car, hide valuables, and never leave electronics or shopping bags in plain view.
• Support vulnerable neighbors: Check on elderly or isolated community members who may need assistance or reassurance during the holidays.
• Be mindful on the road: Expect heavier traffic. Avoid impaired or distracted driving and always wear your seatbelt.

This season reminds us of the importance of looking out for one another. We are thankful for every HCSO teammate who continues serving with compassion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to public safety.

From all of us at the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, we wish you a safe, restful, and meaningful Thanksgiving. Thank you for everything you do to keep our community strong.

The Harris County Sheriff’s office is using innovation to enhance safety in the field by pairing drones and K-9 units to help located suspects more efficiently and to protect deputies on the ground, the department said in a November 7 press release.

The partnership allows the drone’s aerial view to act as a guide, scanning open fields, rooms, windows, and doorways to direct the K-9 exactly where to go.

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — A major after-hours bar in north Harris County is shut down Friday morning after a coordinated overnight raid that deputies say has been months in the making.



According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Las Potrancas Bar and Hookah, located on Veterans Memorial Drive near West Road, has drawn a steady stream of complaints from the community, ranging from illegal alcohol sales to possible drug activity.

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.

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Dennis Martinez as our Teammate of the Week.

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“I would like to file a compliment, Deputy Martinez. He pulled me over for something I had done, and although I was in the wrong, I found him kind, empathetic, professional, and courteous. I appreciate this kind of person serving in our community and hope he continues to lead and be an example for others. Thank you.”

Deputy Martinez has served HCSO for 7 years in patrol, holding roles in the District Unit, Contract Unit, and District Traffic Unit, and is now a Field Training Officer for the District 5-night shift.

He began his law enforcement career in 2015 at the Jacinto City Police Department before joining HCSO in 2019. With nearly 11 years of service, he takes pride in mentoring new deputies and serving the residents of Harris County with professionalism and compassion.

Thank you, Deputy Martinez, for your dedication, leadership, and service to our community.

HCSO Teammate of the Week: Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Walter Sanchez as our Teammate of the Week! 

A Harris County resident recently shared:

“Deputy Sanchez was very respectful and tactful. I was definitely in the wrong when he pulled me over for a traffic citation. In our conversation, we both realized that staying calm and positive has powerful benefits. From the moment of contact, Deputy Sanchez treated me with kindness, dignity, and respect. He explained the situation clearly, listened attentively, and handled the stop with fairness and courtesy. Officers like Sanchez deserve recognition for upholding their duties while treating people with humanity and respect. Please extend my sincere appreciation to him for the way he conducted himself.”

Deputy Sanchez began his law enforcement career in 2013, joining HCSO as a Detention Officer before transferring to Patrol in 2015, where he has proudly served ever since. His experience, professionalism, and dedication continue to make a positive impact across Harris County.

Thank you, Deputy Sanchez, for your commitment to serving with fairness, respect, and compassion. You embody the values that strengthen trust between law enforcement and our community.

Walk for Peace

On November 14, HCSO Major Earl Dean and teammates met with the Walk for Peace monks during their stop in Houston today at Hong Kong City Mall.

These Buddhist monks are on a 2,300-mile pilgrimage journey to Washington, D.C., to promote peace, compassion, and unity in every community they encounter.

We’re grateful for the chance to welcome them and share in their message as they continue their walk through Houston and onward toward Louisiana.

Busted: Surveillance Leads to Felony Arrests

Caught on camera. Caught in real life.

A week after a business was first burglarized, the owner watched the same thieves return on live surveillance to steal more copper. Patrol units moved fast — spotting the suspect truck fleeing on State Highway 6 and conducting a traffic stop moments later.

Inside the truck: stolen copper wiring and burglary tools.



Thanks to quick teamwork between patrol and our Metal Theft Unit, the copper is back where it belongs — and the suspects are now facing felony theft charges.

HCSO Take Me Home Program

November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and HCSO is proud to highlight our Take Me Home program — a vital resource for individuals living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism, or other cognitive conditions.

This voluntary registry helps deputies quickly and safely reunite missing or at-risk residents with their families. To learn more or register a loved one, visit: http://bit.ly/TakeMeHomeProgram



Together, we can support and protect our most vulnerable community members. 💙

HCSO Motorist Assistant Program

In recognition of Crash Responder Safety Week (CRSW), we’re proud to highlight our Motor Assistance Program (MAP) — a vital service keeping Harris County roadways safe.

Since 1986, MAP has assisted more than 1.1 million motorists, helping reduce crashes, clear roadways, and protect responders working on the roadside.



Remember: Slow down. Move over. Save a life.

📞 713-CALL-MAP

I Choose to RISE Unveiling

On November 17, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez joined Commissioner Rodney Ellis and Spring ISD to unveil the “I Choose to RISE” mural series at Westfield High School. The project uses art and design to create safer, more welcoming spaces.

Our Cypress Station Proactive Unit continues to protect this community — contributing to a 36% drop in overall crime, 48% drop in family violence, and 34% drop in aggravated robberies since 2023.



Together, we rise.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving Awards Banquet

On November 19, members of our HCSO DWI Unit were honored at the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Awards Banquet for their dedication to keeping Harris County families safe from impaired drivers.

Every traffic stop reflects a promise to protect someone’s loved ones.



Thank you, MADD, for recognizing their compassion, courage, and commitment to our community.

Visit the Intranet and stay informed

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.

HCSO 2026 Awards in Excellence – Nominations Now Open

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Awards in Excellence, a tradition that celebrates the outstanding service of our teammates and the vital contributions of our community partners.

About the Awards

• 17 awards in total: 16 for HCSO personnel and 1 for a community member.
• Categories include Peace Officer, Detention, Support Staff, Reserve Personnel, and Specialized Awards such as: 
•  Sandeep Dhaliwal Community Impact Award

Joseph Trapolino Mental Health Professional of the Year

 Lifetime Achievement Award (recognizing 20+ years of distinguished service).

How to Nominate

• Submit nominations via the Awards in Excellence Portal (live through mid-January 2026).
• Summaries must be 200–750 words, clearly describing how the nominee meets award criteria.
• Supporting evidence (reports, incident numbers, body-worn or dash camera footage, articles, etc.) is strongly encouraged.
• Any HCSO employee may submit nominations. Community members may also be nominated.
• Self-nominations are not accepted.
• Eligible actions or services must have taken place in calendar year 2025.

Selection Process

An Awards Committee made up of five to seven peers from mixed ranks and the Professional Staff carefully reviews all submitted nominations. From this group, three to five candidates are selected to move forward. 

In the second phase, under the supervision of an Assistant Chief, five Majors review the shortlisted candidates and select one to two finalists.

The final decision is made by Chief Deputy Diaz and Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.

This is your chance to help shine a light on the dedication, professionalism, and community spirit that make HCSO exceptional.

Your Support Matters: Help Us Reach Our Goal for Deputy Russell

The Traffic Crimes Unit challenge coin is now available! In the final days of our fundraiser, we ask for your help in supporting Deputy Russell and his family. Each coin is priced at $30, and a portion of the proceeds will go directly to the family during this difficult time.

WATCH VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/sIBgO1nc0s8

To place an order, please email Sgt. J. Carroll or Deputy M. Rodarte. Pre-orders will close on December 5, 2025.

📧 John.Carroll@sheriff.hctx.net

📧 Monique.Rodarte@sheriff.hctx.net

Your compassion, generosity, and willingness to share this effort truly make a difference. Thank you for standing with the Russell family and uplifting them in their time of need.