Message from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez: | | |
HCSO Teammates,
Every month we ask you to go above and beyond for this community, and this month we want to take a moment to point back at you and say: it's working, and it's because of you.
July is Watch Your Car Month, and while a lot of our messaging goes out to the public, we wanted to make sure you saw the numbers behind the headlines — because they don't happen without the people doing the work.
The results speak for themselves
| |
- Motor vehicle thefts in Harris County dropped from 5,958 in 2024 to 4,310 in 2025 — a 27.66% decrease.
- Burglaries of motor vehicles dropped from 11,978 to 9,217 — a 23.05% reduction.
Those aren't just stats we report to the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority, MVCPA. Those are thousands of residents who didn't come out to a broken window or an empty driveway this year. That's a direct result of the Auto Theft Unit's proactive work, the patrol deputies who keep an eye out on every shift, and every teammate who takes the time to talk to a resident about locking their doors. We see it, and we appreciate it more than a headline can really capture.
What's happening this month: The Auto Theft Unit will continue offering free catalytic converter etching every Wednesday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., at 310 Fisher Rd., Humble. If you're interacting with the public this month, feel free to point residents our way — it's a quick, no-appointment service that makes a real difference for them.
We're early in 2026, so it's too soon to call the trend, but if the first half of the year is any indication, you're on pace to make this another record year for prevention. That takes consistency, patience, and showing up on the days nobody's watching — and that's exactly what you've been doing.
Thank you for your service, your professionalism, and the quiet, steady work that doesn't always make headlines but absolutely makes a difference.
We're proud to serve alongside you.
| | HCSO celebrates its newest detention officers | | | | HCSO congratulated its newest class of detention officers on completing their rigorous training. If you or someone you know is looking for a meaningful career in public service, HCSO is hiring — learn more at HCSOJobs.com. | | | | When a local repairman didn't come home from a service call, his family raised the alarm. Deputies moved quickly, identifying and arresting the man responsible within a day — bringing the family some measure of closure. | | | | When a driver refused to stop for a routine traffic stop in northwest Harris County, deputies stayed with the box truck along the Katy Freeway until it came to a stop. Two suspects were taken into custody on the spot. | | 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. | | |
A Harris County resident recently shared:
💬 "A few weeks ago, I found my wife unresponsive and called 911. Deputy Augustine Arellano was first on scene. My wife passed despite the efforts of first responders and EMTs. Deputy Arellano stayed until my wife's body was removed. During that time, he was a tremendous help in contacting the medical examiner and the cremation society for me. He was extremely compassionate, and it helped me at such a devastating time. He is a credit to your organization."
Deputy Arellano has been with HCSO since August 2023 and began his law enforcement career in January 2015. He currently serves in District 1 Patrol in north Harris County as a Contract Deputy for Klein PUD.
👏Thank you, Deputy Arellano, for showing up with compassion during one of the hardest moments a family can face. Your kindness made a lasting difference.
See the post
| | |
A Harris County resident recently shared:
💬 "I was pulled over for an infraction and actually had a really solid experience. I believe it was Deputy Pineda. Anyway, he was extremely nice and kept things quick and professional, and I would honestly say it was the most comfortable and pleasant experience I've had with any officer before and has really brought my spirits with law enforcement up a lot, seeing good ones firsthand, and I am definitely glad there's someone like him serving our community."
Deputy Pineda has served with HCSO since December 2021, starting as a Detention Officer before moving to Central Records and later attending the HCSO Academy to become a certified peace officer. He now serves as a Patrol Deputy in District 6, north Harris County.
👏Thank you, Deputy Pineda, for representing HCSO with professionalism and kindness — even during a routine stop. Moments like this are exactly why our community trusts us.
See the post
| | |
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO congratulated 36 new Detention Officers on their graduation, welcoming the newest members of the team. If you know someone who'd be a great fit, HCSO is hiring — call 713-877-5250 or visit HCSOJobs.com.
See the post
| | |
Deputies traded their uniforms for aprons at Texas Roadhouse in Humble for Tip-A-Cop, raising funds for Special Olympics Texas. Every tip and donation helps provide year-round sports training, competition, and life-changing opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Thanks to Texas Roadhouse and the Law Enforcement Torch Run for making the night a success.
See the post
| | |
On July 13, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO congratulated the graduates of Citizens' Police Academy Class #66, recognizing their commitment to learning about law enforcement and strengthening community partnerships. Thanks to HCSO Command Staff, the CPA Alumni Association, HCSO Chaplains, Starbucks, Panadería Tierra Caliente, and BakerRipley Pasadena for their support.
See the post
| | |
Registration is open for HCSO's free One-Day Citizens' Police Academy, Saturday, August 22, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. at the Tracey Gee Community Center.
Participants get a behind-the-scenes look at the Crime Scene Unit, Behavioral Health, Jail Operations, Traffic, and Shoot or Don't Shoot training.
Space is limited to 30 participants — apply by August 15.
Register here
| | |
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and HCSO recognized Detention Officer Lisa Francis as Employee of the Quarter. During a critical medical emergency, Officer Francis acted fast — activating her body-worn camera, assessing the inmate, and coordinating closely with medical staff to ensure the quickest possible care.
See the post
| | |
HCSO is accepting registrations for a free 4-day Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Women's Self-Defense Class, August 12, 13, 19 & 20, 5–8 p.m. at the Tracey Gee Community Center (3599 Westcenter Dr., Houston, TX 77042).
Open to women ages 18–60; limited to 30 registrants; all four sessions required to receive a certificate. Taught by certified HCSO instructors.
Questions: communityengagementdiv@sheriff.hctx.net
Register here
| | |
The Harris County Jail remains in full compliance with
the Texas Commission on Jail Standards
| | |
To All HCSO Employees:
I am proud to share that the Harris County Jail remains in full compliance with the Texas Commission on Jail Standards following the successful completion of a comprehensive on-site inspection conducted on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
This tremendous honor confirms that our jail continues to meet all 26 minimum state standards governing county jail operations, including health services, inmate supervision, life safety, security, commissary operations, and the admission and release process.
I want to recognize that this achievement is no small accomplishment and personally thank each of you for the hard work and dedication it represents. Every day, you take on a difficult mission that demands professionalism, vigilance, and compassion. While much of your work happens behind the scenes and away from public view, it is essential to the safety of our community and to the success of this agency.
Maintaining compliance is not something that happens on inspection day, it is a testament to the standard of excellence you uphold each and every day.
This achievement belongs to our detention officers, medical providers, civilian employees, supervisors, and professional staff. Your commitment to excellence, your integrity, and your compassion are what make accomplishments like this possible. Thank you for the professionalism you bring to work each day and for the respect and dignity you show to those in our care.
I hope you will take pride in this accomplishment. It reflects the high standards you uphold and the important role you play in serving both this office and our community. I am honored to serve alongside each of you and grateful for your continued dedication to the Harris County Sheriff's Office.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez
| | Take the Next Step in Your Career — Apply for BPOC Today! | | |
Are you ready to take your career to the next level and become a Peace Officer? The Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) is now accepting applications!
The BPOC provides the training, knowledge, and skills you need to prepare for a rewarding career in law enforcement and service to our community.
If you are interested in joining the next BPOC class, now is the time to apply!
Important Deadlines:
- 📅 Application Deadline: August 7th
- 📝 Testing Deadline: August 10th
Don’t wait until the last minute — submit your application and complete all required testing before the deadlines.
Apply Here:
Sheriff Deputy Cadet (Basic Peace Officer BPOC) | Job Details tab | Career Pages
For more information about BPOC requirements, eligibility, and the application process, please visit the link above or contact Zackarie.Henry@Sheriff.hctx.net.
Your future in law enforcement starts here. Apply today!
| | Coin Collectors, Take Note: Two New Challenge Coins Now for Sale | | |
HCSO has two new challenge coins available for purchase — and both support a good cause.
🚔 Vehicular Crimes Division Crash Investigator Coin — $20 each. A two-sided coin honoring our VCD Crash Investigators: "We measure. We investigate. We make a difference." Individually wrapped, gold-finish quality. Quantities are limited, so reserve yours early by emailing Captain Aric Albers at Aric.Albers@sheriff.hctx.net.
🏅 National Correctional Officers' Appreciation Week Challenge Coins — $15 each or $25 for the set. These are the winning designs from our own Challenge Coin Design Contest — congratulations again to Detention Officer Blake Mire and Grievance Officer Franchessica Patterson! To purchase with Zelle, PayPal, or CashApp, contact Ashlee Carabajal (Ashlee.Carabajal@sheriff.hctx.net) or Isabella Gomez (Isabella.Gomez@sheriff.hctx.net). To pay with cash, Zelle, PayPal, or CashApp, contact Natasha Young (Natasha.Young@sheriff.hctx.net). All proceeds benefit the Harris County Sheriff's Office Benevolence Association.
See the flyers below for full details.
| | Law enforcement personnel: Class A Uniform Survey | | |
HCSO is requesting your input on potential modifications to the current Class A uniform for law enforcement personnel. This will not affect the Class A uniform for detention personnel.
This survey is restricted to law enforcement personnel only. In this survey, you will find photos of each uniform option. If you would like to see the uniform options in person, mannequins displaying the uniforms are located at the following locations:
- 2316 Atascocita Road – Academy Library
- 1200 Baker Street – Administrative Entrance Lobby
Please take a moment to complete the survey, as your input is crucial in shaping this important decision for the agency.
| | HCSO Emergency Dispatch Center Newsletter | | | | |
