HCSO Newsletter #222 – A New Generation of Deputies Ready to Serve | | Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez: | | |
On Thursday, October 9, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly celebrated the graduation of 59 cadets from the Basic Peace Officer Class (BPOC) during a heartfelt ceremony at Fallbrook Church. Surrounded by family, friends, and agency leadership, the graduates marked the culmination of months of dedication, discipline, and a shared commitment to serve the people of Harris County.
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In his remarks, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez commended the cadets for reaching a milestone that few achieve.
“Graduating from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Academy is no small feat,” Sheriff Gonzalez said. “You’ve spent months in rigorous training, sacrificed time with loved ones, and faced physical, mental, and emotional challenges head-on.”
During their time at the academy, this graduating class made history by participating in the first-ever HCSO Bus Tour — an initiative designed to help cadets engage directly with communities across Harris County. The experience gave them a deeper understanding of the diverse neighborhoods, cultures, and residents they will soon serve, reinforcing the importance of empathy, awareness, and human connection in law enforcement.
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Sheriff Gonzalez highlighted the diverse backgrounds represented among the graduates — including military veterans, parents, and those following family legacies in law enforcement. He emphasized that this diversity reflects the strength and resilience of Harris County and enriches the Sheriff’s Office as a whole.
As the new deputies prepared to begin their assignments in the Patrol Division, Sheriff Gonzalez encouraged them to lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and uphold the values of fairness and respect in every encounter.
“You are more than enforcers of the law,” Sheriff Gonzalez said. “You are mentors, community leaders, and voices for justice.”
The Sheriff’s Office also recognized the HCSO Academy staff for their unwavering commitment to developing and preparing the next generation of law enforcement professionals.
The evening concluded with pride, emotion, and unity as the graduates took their oath to serve and protect the people of Harris County — ready to begin their next chapter with courage, honor, and heart. Click here to view the album.
| | Building Trust, One Neighborhood at a Time: National Night Out | | |
On Tuesday, October 7, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office joined residents across the county to celebrate National Night Out 2025, a nationwide event dedicated to strengthening trust, connection, and collaboration between law enforcement and the communities we proudly serve. Click here to view the album.
Throughout Harris County, neighborhoods came alive with block parties, cookouts, and community gatherings where residents had the opportunity to meet deputies, ask questions, and learn about safety programs and resources. From patrol deputies and mounted units to recruitment and specialized teams, HCSO members were out in full force — sharing smiles, building relationships, and reinforcing a simple truth: our community is our priority.
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One of the evening’s highlights was the friendly and spirited HCSO vs. HPD Tug-of-War, a tradition that never fails to draw a crowd. With teamwork and determination, HCSO pulled through for the win — earning not just bragging rights, but plenty of cheers and laughs from neighbors on both sides.
This year’s National Night Out also marked a new chapter in community engagement at HCSO. The Sheriff’s Office has shifted from a centralized Community Engagement Team to a more division-led approach, empowering every unit and command to take an active role in connecting with residents. Deputies and staff are now working directly within the neighborhoods they serve — listening, responding, and building meaningful relationships one conversation at a time.
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As Sheriff Ed Gonzalez often reminds us, community trust doesn’t happen in a single night — it’s built through consistent presence, empathy, and collaboration.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office extends heartfelt thanks to all the neighborhoods, volunteers, and partner agencies who made this year’s National Night Out such a success.
Together, we’re building stronger, safer, and more united communities across Harris County — one neighbor, one conversation, and one act of kindness at a time. Be a good neighbor. Stay alert. If you see something, say something. Together, we can keep Harris County safe.
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HOUSTON (KIAH) — On Tuesday, Harris County officials broke ground on a new $157 million safety center on Navigation Boulevard. The building will serve law enforcement and the community, bringing services closer to the courthouse and housing key investigative units.
The proposed development promises enhanced safety and convenience for nearby residents by offering accessible services and fostering community engagement.
| | | | Houston Mayor John Whitmire, Police Chief Noe Diaz, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and other law enforcement said the area is united in the fight against crime. | | 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 Victor Plancarte
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Victor Plancarte for his professionalism, compassion, and commitment to service.
A Harris County resident recently shared:
“Officer Plancarte was very kind and professional. We need more officers like him in the community. As a teacher in the area, his professionalism is what our students need to see from law enforcement. It shows everyone that officers are human and here to do what is best for everyone. Gratitude towards Officer Plancarte!”
Deputy Plancarte has served with HCSO for approximately eight years. He began his law enforcement career as a detention officer in 2017 and became a deputy in 2019.
Thank you, Deputy Plancarte, for representing HCSO’s values with pride and professionalism.
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HCSO Teammate of the Week: Deputy Daryl Campbell
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize Deputy Daryl Campbell for his professionalism, compassion, and commitment to service.
A Harris County resident recently shared:
“Today was already hectic on the road. I’m from Hawaii but have been driving in Texas for six years and did something illegal without even realizing it. The deputy who pulled me over was so kind and gave me a warning instead of a ticket. I’m so grateful — that act of understanding completely changed the course of my day. Deputy Campbell was awesome, and I’m very happy we have kind officers like him. Thank you, Deputy Campbell, for cutting me some slack today. I really appreciate it.”
Deputy Campbell has proudly served with HCSO for over 10 years — beginning his career as a detention officer in 2015 before becoming a deputy in 2019. He currently serves as a Contract Patrol Deputy in District 4, in Katy, where he continues to make a difference through empathy, professionalism, and respect for the community.
Thank you, Deputy Campbell, for leading with kindness and exemplifying HCSO’s core values of integrity, service, and community first.
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HCSO proudly wears purple in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month — a symbol of unity, hope, and support for survivors. We stand with those affected by abuse and remain committed to raising awareness, empowering victims, and promoting safety across Harris County.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call 713-274-9369. Together, we can break the silence and make a difference.
| | On September 27, a van crashed and caught fire along the Grand Parkway, trapping two passengers inside. Good Samaritans Fabian Gutierrez and Kevin Welch, along with others, rushed toward the flames—pulling the driver to safety. Deputies say their quick actions and bravery saved a life. This week, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office proudly honored these individuals with challenge coins, recognizing their extraordinary courage. | | The Harris County Sheriff’s Office partnered with the No Queen Left Behind organization to provide self-defense training for young women. Through hands-on training, the girls learned critical skills to protect themselves, build confidence, and stay safe in their everyday lives. Together, we’re building a stronger, safer community by empowering the next generation. | | |
On October 6, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez was honored with the 2025 Cherish the Child Award from The Children's Assessment Center - Houston-Harris County.
The award presented to Sheriff Gonzalez represents the hard work of the entire HCSO family. For over 30 years, our dedicated detectives, deputies, and team members have worked alongside CAC to protect children, support survivors, and help heal families.
From managing heartbreaking investigations to leading our annual Toy Drive, which delivers over 15,000 holiday gifts, our team's mission remains clear: putting children's safety and hope first. This recognition is for every HCSO teammate working daily to protect our community's most vulnerable.
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Thank you to everyone who joined us during Faith & Blue Weekend 2025! This national initiative brings law enforcement and faith communities together to build trust, strengthen relationships, and create safer neighborhoods.
We would like to thank Walmart for donating snacks, drinks and lunch. We appreciate their partnership and support. We’re proud to serve alongside our community — because together, we’re stronger.
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Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and the entire HCSO team are proud of your dedication, discipline, and commitment to serving Harris County with integrity. Welcome to the HCSO family!
Ready to start your own career in public service? Visit HCSOJobs.com or call 713-877-5250.
| | 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:
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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
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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.
| | Our Very Own: Lt. Joubert Inspires Young Readers | | |
We’re proud to highlight The Responsible Kids, a new children’s book written by our very own Det. Lt. Alexander Joubert from the Inmate Services Division. The book teaches young readers about responsibility and core values in a fun and engaging way.
Check it out here: The Responsible Kids – Alex Joubert
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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, which is on October 20, 2025, for HCSO employees. 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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